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Cistercian Abbey of Heiligenkreuz: A Living Monastery

Discover Austria's Heiligenkreuz Abbey: a historic Cistercian monastery, a spiritual haven, and a cultural treasure in the Vienna Woods.

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Founded in 1133, Heiligenkreuz Abbey is a Cistercian monastery nestled in the Vienna Woods. It stands as the second-oldest Cistercian abbey in Austria and the oldest continuously active Cistercian monastery in the world, offering visitors a serene escape and a glimpse into monastic life.

A brief summary to Cistercian Abbey of Heiligenkreuz

Local tips

  • Attend a Gregorian chant service to experience the monks' renowned musical tradition.
  • Explore the abbey's architecture, blending Romanesque and Gothic styles, including the Romanesque nave and Gothic choir.
  • Visit the Holy Cross Chapel to view the relic of the True Cross, a gift from Duke Leopold V in 1188.
  • Enjoy a meal at the monastery restaurant to savor local cuisine and support the monastic community.
  • Take a guided tour to learn about the abbey's history, art, and spiritual significance.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Vienna, take public transport to Mödling train station. From Mödling, take regional bus 365 towards Alland Reha-Zentrum to the Heiligenkreuz Stift/Badner Tor stop. The abbey is a short walk from the bus stop. A single bus fare from Vienna to Heiligenkreuz will cost approximately €6.

  • Car

    Heiligenkreuz Abbey is located directly off the A21 highway (Allander Autobahn) and has its own exit, 'Heiligenkreuz'. Follow the signs to the abbey. Parking is available near the abbey. Expect to pay around €3-5 for hourly parking. From Vienna, take the A21 to the 'Heiligenkreuz' exit. The drive is approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from Vienna to Heiligenkreuz. A taxi ride from Vienna to Heiligenkreuz typically takes around 30 minutes and costs between €70 and €90. Taxi services like Uber and Wienerwald Taxi are available.

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Discover more about Cistercian Abbey of Heiligenkreuz

Located in the heart of the Vienna Woods, just 15 km from Vienna, the Cistercian Abbey of Heiligenkreuz offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Founded in 1133 by Margrave Leopold III, the abbey has been a center of monastic life for nearly 900 years. It is the second-oldest Cistercian abbey in Austria and the oldest continuously active and inhabited one in the world. Visitors can explore the abbey's architectural marvels, which blend Romanesque and Gothic styles. The Romanesque nave, consecrated in 1187, stands as a testament to the abbey's early history, while the Gothic choir, added in the 13th century, showcases the evolution of its design. The abbey also houses a relic of the True Cross, presented in 1188 by Duke Leopold V, making it a significant pilgrimage site. Heiligenkreuz is not merely a historical monument but a thriving monastic community. The monks, known for their Gregorian chants, welcome visitors to attend their daily prayers. The abbey also features a monastery store and restaurant, allowing guests to experience the monks' way of life. With its serene atmosphere and rich cultural heritage, Heiligenkreuz Abbey attracts around 200,000 visitors annually, making it one of Lower Austria's top tourist destinations.

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