Hildegard of Bingen, German abbess, visionary mystic, and composer died on September 17, 1179.

In the Middle Ages, she was regarded as the herald of the approaching end of the world. The humanists celebrated Hildegard as the first great woman in literary history. During the Reformation, Hildegard was often invoked because she had used drastic words to complain about abuses in the papal church. Based on some miracle stories, the Romantics created the image of the “popular saint Hildegard”. Since the industrial age, holistic “Hildegard medicine” has become popular as a gentle alternative to apparatus medicine. Today, Hildegard is regarded by many as a pioneer for the emancipation of women. As the most important composer in the history of music, she is known above all in the USA, Australia and Japan. Hildegard’s holistic view of creation gives us valuable orientation in dealing with climate change. And in 2012, the visionary from Bingen was elevated to the status of Doctor of the Catholic Church on the basis of her extensive work – the fourth woman worldwide in 2000 years…
Who was Hildegard of Bingen | Bingen am Rhein

A couple interesting stamps have focused on Saint Hildegard of Bingen. The most interesting and least orthodox portrait was issued by Liechtenstein for her 925th Anniversary.

Saint Hildegard of Bingen, 925th Anniversary
Issued by Liechtenstein in 2023
Designed by Thomas Giger

2024’s Stamp of the Day looked at Harriet Tubman first escape from slavery.