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Basilika Mariatrost: A Baroque Pilgrimage

Discover the Baroque splendor of Graz's Basilika Mariatrost, a pilgrimage site with stunning architecture and panoramic city views.

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Perched atop Purberg hill, the Basilika Mariatrost is a stunning Baroque basilica and a major pilgrimage site in Styria, Austria. Its twin towers and dome are visible from afar, beckoning visitors to explore its ornate interior, rich history, and panoramic views of Graz.

A brief summary to Basilika Mariatrost

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to experience the basilica in the most beautiful light and with fewer crowds.
  • Take the Angelus Staircase to reach the basilica, lined with artistically decorated chapels.
  • Explore the hiking trails surrounding the basilica for scenic views of the Mariatrost hills.
  • Attend a concert to experience the basilica's impressive Baroque organ.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The easiest way to reach Basilika Mariatrost from Graz city center is by tram. Take Tram line 1 from Kaiser-Josef-Platz/Oper to the final stop, Mariatrost. From there, it's a 10-minute walk via the Angelus staircase to the basilica. A single tram fare is approximately €3.

  • Taxi

    A taxi or ride-sharing service from Graz city center to Basilika Mariatrost takes about 7 minutes and costs approximately €13-€16. Note that the final approach to the basilica is steep.

  • Driving

    If driving from Vienna, take the A2 to Gleisdorf West, then the B65 towards Graz via Brodingberg and Kainbach to Graz-Mariatrost. From the A9, take the Gratkorn Süd exit, then the B67 and B67a towards Graz as far as Stadtpark, continuing on the B72 to Mariatrost. Parking is available near the basilica, with free parking on Saturdays and Sundays. Weekday parking may have a fee.

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Discover more about Basilika Mariatrost

The Basilika Mariatrost, located in the Mariatrost district of Graz, is one of Styria's most significant Baroque landmarks and a prominent pilgrimage destination. Situated atop Purberg hill, 469 meters high, the basilica offers breathtaking views of Graz and the surrounding landscape. Originally a chapel in the 17th century, the foundation stone for the current church was laid in 1714, with construction completed in 1724 by Andreas Stengg and his son Johann Georg Stengg. The basilica's architecture exemplifies Styrian late Baroque style, characterized by its white and gold facade, elaborate stucco work, and impressive frescoes by Lukas von Schram and Johann Baptist Scheidt. Two prominent towers, standing 61 meters tall, and a central dome define the church's silhouette. The interior is home to a miraculous statue of the Virgin Mary, dating back to the 15th century and crafted from linden wood. The statue is believed to possess healing powers, drawing pilgrims who ascend the Angelus Staircase, with over 200 steps, as an act of devotion. The high altar, designed by Veit Königer and Johann Baptist Stammel, showcases a group of angels surrounding the Madonna statue. The basilica also features a historic organ, built in 1722 by Johann Georg Mitterreither, one of the few preserved Baroque organs in Austria. In 1999, Pope John Paul II elevated the church to a basilica minor, recognizing its importance. Today, the Basilika Mariatrost continues to be a place of pilgrimage, architectural admiration, and spiritual contemplation.

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