Beneath the gaze of scholars and dreamers stands the Albertus Magnus Statue. It graces the front of the University of Cologne. This statue honors a remarkable man. Albertus Magnus was a theologian, scholar, and philosopher. He lived in the 13th century.
Albertus Magnus was later canonized in 1931. The Albertus Magnus Statue is easily accessible. A short walk from the Universität tram stop will bring you here.
Albertus Magnus was known as Albert the Great. He was a scientist, philosopher, and theologian. He was born around 1206 and died in Cologne on November 15, 1280. People called him “the Great” and “Doctor Universalis”. This recognized his genius and extensive knowledge. He excelled in every branch of learning. He surpassed his contemporaries in knowledge of nature.
Albertus Magnus was born in Lauingen, Swabia. This was around 1205 or 1206. As a youth, he studied at the University of Padua. In 1223, he joined the Order of St. Dominic. After his studies, he taught theology in several cities. These included Hildesheim, Freiburg, Ratisbon, Strasburg, and Cologne.
In 1245, he went to Paris and earned his Doctor’s degree. During this time, St. Thomas Aquinas was one of his students. Albert recognized Aquinas’ genius. He predicted Aquinas’ future greatness. In 1248, they returned to Cologne. Albert became Regent of the new Studium Generale. Thomas became a professor.
In 1254, Albert became Provincial of his Order in Germany. He defended the Mendicant Orders in Rome in 1256. He resigned as Provincial in 1257. He then devoted himself to study and teaching. In 1260, he became Bishop of Ratisbon. He resigned in 1262 and resumed teaching in Cologne.
Albert attended the Council of Lyons in 1274. The death of St. Thomas Aquinas was a heavy blow to Albert. He called Aquinas “The Light of the Church”. In 1277, he defended Aquinas’ writings in Paris.
Around 1278, Albert suffered memory loss. His health declined. He was beatified in 1622. He was finally canonized in 1931.
Albertus Magnus wrote extensively on logic and the physical sciences. He also covered biological, psychological, moral, and political subjects. His theological works are vast. These include commentaries on the Psalms, Gospels, and more.
Albert’s influence on scholars was immense. He was the guide and master of St. Thomas Aquinas. He created a veritable encyclopedia. It contained scientific treatises on almost every subject. He showed insight into nature and knowledge of theology.
Albertus Magnus emphasized the importance of investigating nature. He said experiment was the only safe guide in such investigations. He also said that we should inquire what Nature can naturally bring to pass. He critically appreciated Aristotle.
Albert was an authority on many subjects. These included physics, geography, astronomy, mineralogy, and chemistry. His observations are of permanent value.
Albert and Roger Bacon showed that the Church supports the study of nature. They emphasized experiment and investigation. Albert respected authority and traditions.
Albert contributed significantly to the advancement of science. His method was historical and critical. He gathered all known information and expressed his own opinions.
Albertus Magnus significantly influenced philosophy and theology. He gave Christian philosophy and theology its form and method. He reconciled reason and Orthodox faith. He purified Aristotle’s works from errors. He made pagan philosophy useful for revealed truth.
In theology, Albert comes between Peter Lombard and St. Thomas Aquinas. His “Summa Theologiae” marked an advance in scientific order. St. Thomas Aquinas built upon Albert’s work.
Standing before the Albertus Magnus Statue, one contemplates a life dedicated to knowledge. His legacy enriches Cologne and the world. This statue stands as a testament to his enduring impact.