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Cistercian Abbey of Heiligenkreuz: A Living Medieval Monastery

Discover Austria's spiritual heart in the Vienna Woods: a living Cistercian monastery with stunning architecture and Gregorian chant.

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Founded in 1133, the Cistercian Abbey of Heiligenkreuz is a stunning and historically significant monastery nestled in the Vienna Woods. It stands as the second-oldest Cistercian monastery in the world and the oldest continuously active one, offering visitors a glimpse into monastic life and breathtaking medieval architecture.

A brief summary to Cistercian Abbey of Heiligenkreuz

Local tips

  • Attend one of the daily prayer services to experience the monks' renowned Gregorian chant.
  • Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the abbey's rich history and architectural details.
  • Explore the abbey's surroundings in the Vienna Woods for a peaceful nature escape.
  • Visit the monastery shop for local products, including Heiligenkreuz wine and liqueurs.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Vienna, take the S-Bahn to Mödling. From Mödling, take regional bus 365 towards Alland Reha-Zentrum to the Heiligenkreuz Stift/Badner Tor stop. The journey from Vienna to Heiligenkreuz takes approximately one hour. A single VOR ticket from Vienna to Heiligenkreuz costs approximately €5-€11.

  • Car

    Heiligenkreuz is located directly on the A21 motorway (Allander Autobahn) and has its own exit, 'Heiligenkreuz'. From Vienna, follow the A21 south. Parking is available near the abbey. Note that parking fees may apply.

  • Postbus Shuttle

    The Postbus Shuttle operates in the Mödling district, offering on-demand transport. Book a shuttle via the Postbus Shuttle app to connect to bus or train services, or for shorter trips within the Heiligenkreuz area. The price per ride consists of a basic fare (VOR zone tariff) plus a comfort surcharge of €2. Payment is made in cash or card directly in the vehicle.

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Discover more about Cistercian Abbey of Heiligenkreuz

Located just 15 kilometers from Vienna in the tranquil Vienna Woods, the Cistercian Abbey of Heiligenkreuz offers a serene escape into Austria's rich religious and architectural history. Founded in 1133 by Saint Leopold III, the abbey has been a continuously active Cistercian monastery for nearly 900 years. This makes it the oldest continuously occupied Cistercian monastery in the world. Visitors can explore the abbey's stunning architecture, which blends Romanesque and Gothic styles. Highlights include the Romanesque nave consecrated in 1187, the Gothic hall choir consecrated in 1295, and the peaceful cloisters built in the 13th century. The abbey also houses a revered relic of the True Cross, presented in 1188 by Duke Leopold V, and displayed since 1983 in the Chapel of the Holy Cross. Heiligenkreuz is not just a historical monument; it's a thriving monastic community. The monks are known for their Gregorian chant, which gained international recognition in 2008. Visitors are welcome to attend the monks' public prayer services, experiencing the beauty of Gregorian chant firsthand. The abbey also welcomes guests to stay in its guesthouse, offering a unique opportunity to experience monastic life. With its blend of history, architecture, spirituality, and natural beauty, Heiligenkreuz attracts around 200,000 visitors every year. Whether you're interested in religious history, medieval architecture, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, the Cistercian Abbey of Heiligenkreuz offers a memorable and enriching experience.

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