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Säusenstein Abbey: A Danube Valley Jewel

Discover Säusenstein Abbey, a historic Gothic monastery in Austria's Danube Valley, offering a serene escape and a glimpse into the past.

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Säusenstein Abbey, a former Cistercian monastery in Lower Austria, stands majestically on the banks of the Danube in Ybbs an der Donau. Founded in 1334, it boasts Gothic architecture and a rich history, having survived Turkish invasions and served as a military hospital during the Napoleonic Wars. Today, it functions as an educational center and welcomes visitors to explore its historical significance and serene surroundings.

A brief summary to Säusenstein Abbey

Local tips

  • Check the official website or call ahead for information on guided tours and opening times, as they may vary.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing some walking on potentially uneven surfaces.
  • Bring a camera to capture the abbey's stunning architecture and the surrounding Danube Valley landscape.
  • Consider exploring the nearby Danube Cycle Path for a scenic bike ride.
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Getting There

  • Train

    The nearest train station is Säusenstein Bahnhof, a short walk from the abbey. From Vienna, take a train to Ybbs an der Donau, then transfer to a regional train to Säusenstein. Check ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) for schedules and fares. A single ticket from Ybbs an der Donau to Säusenstein costs approximately €3-€5. From the station, follow Schlossstraße to the abbey.

  • Bus

    Take bus number 1 from Ybbs an der Donau station towards Ybbs Stadt and get off at the 'Schlossstraße' stop. From there, it is a short 5-minute walk to Säusenstein Abbey at Schlossstraße 14. Please ensure to check the local bus schedules for any fees and operational hours.

  • Car

    If driving from the Mostviertel region, take the A1 motorway towards Ybbs an der Donau. Exit at Ybbs an der Donau and follow signs for B1 towards the city center. Continue on B1 for about 3 kilometers until you reach Schlossstraße. Turn onto Schlossstraße, and the abbey is at Schlossstraße 14. Parking is available near the abbey, but check for any parking fees. Parking costs are variable but expect to pay around €1-€2 per hour.

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Discover more about Säusenstein Abbey

Nestled in the picturesque Danube Valley, Säusenstein Abbey offers a captivating glimpse into Austria's rich cultural and architectural heritage. Founded in 1334 by Eberhard of Wallsee, the Gothic monastery initially housed a Cistercian community. The abbey's stone walls, adorned with pointed arches and tall windows, rise along the Danube River, reflecting its medieval origins. Throughout its history, Säusenstein Abbey has weathered numerous challenges. It suffered during the Turkish invasions of the 16th century and was later used as a military hospital by Napoleon's troops, resulting in significant damage, including the near-total destruction of the church by arson around 1801. The abbey was dissolved in 1789 under Emperor Joseph II. In more recent times, the abbey faced further neglect and demolition, including the loss of two sides of its cloisters during the construction of the Austrian Western Railway in 1856. However, in 1979, the complex was acquired by artist Luise Wittmann and her son, architect Karl, who dedicated themselves to restoring the remaining buildings and opening them to the public. Today, visitors can explore the abbey's historical architecture, wander through its peaceful cloisters and gardens, and immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere of the Danube Valley. While it functions as a private school, tours are available upon request.

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