In Germany, one’s religion was very important. The Bishop in every district decided which religion every parishioner must practice. Religion was at the core of conflicts, even wars. Your religion was your identity. This photograph portrays the facade of the Prince-Bishop’s palace in Passau.

Passau has a complex relationship with religion. Written into its constitution is a strong commitment to separation of church and state. But, based on an agreement dated 1924, the state is required to pay the salaries of bishops today; children can attend religious schools, so long as they abide by national standards of teaching and learning. Home schooling is not permitted