Göttweig Abbey: Austria's Baroque Masterpiece

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Discover Austria's 'Montecassino': A Baroque Benedictine abbey with stunning views, rich history, and spiritual significance in the Wachau Valley.

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Göttweig Abbey

Perched high above the Danube in the Wachau Valley, Göttweig Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a stunning Benedictine monastery with a rich history spanning over 900 years. Known as the 'Austrian Montecassino,' it offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Baroque splendor.

A brief summary to Göttweig Abbey

Stift Göttweig 1, Furth bei Göttweig, 3511, AT
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Local tips

Visit the Abbey Church to admire the Baroque architecture, ornate high altar, and ceiling frescoes.
Explore the Imperial Staircase, known as the largest Baroque staircase in Austria, and its impressive ceiling fresco.
Take a guided tour to discover the abbey's history, art collections, and the Imperial Wing.
Enjoy panoramic views of the Danube River and Wachau Valley from the Abbey Park.
Visit the apricot orchard (open in warm season) and sample local apricot products.

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Getting There

Driving

Göttweig Abbey is accessible by car. From Krems, follow the signs towards Furth bei Göttweig. The abbey is located on a hill overlooking the town. Parking is available onsite. Be aware that parking may be limited during peak season. No tolls are expected on the final approach.
Public Transport

From Krems an der Donau, take a local bus to Furth bei Göttweig. From the bus stop in Furth, it's a steep but rewarding uphill walk (approx. 30 minutes) to the abbey. Check local bus schedules for accurate times and fares. A single bus fare is approximately €2-3.
Walking

For those who enjoy a scenic walk, it is possible to walk to Göttweig Abbey from Furth bei Göttweig. Follow the marked hiking trails uphill. The walk takes approximately 30-45 minutes and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Be prepared for a steep incline.

Discover more about Göttweig Abbey

Göttweig Abbey, majestically situated on a hill overlooking the Wachau Valley, stands as a testament to Austria's rich religious and cultural heritage. Founded in 1083 by Bishop Altmann of Passau, it initially served as a monastery for Augustinian canons before transitioning to the Benedictine Order in 1094. For centuries, Benedictine monks have lived and worked here, dedicating themselves to prayer, pastoral care, and the preservation of the monastery's cultural legacy.The abbey's architecture is a captivating blend of styles, with its Baroque design taking center stage. After a devastating fire in 1718, the abbey was rebuilt in the grand Baroque style under Abbot Gottfried Bessel, with Johann Lucas von Hildebrandt, a prominent architect, creating the plans. Although the complex was never fully completed, it remains one of Austria's most impressive Baroque monasteries.Key highlights include the Abbey Church, a stunning example of Baroque ecclesiastical architecture, featuring a lavish interior with an ornate high altar and beautiful ceiling frescoes. The Imperial Staircase, designed by Johann Lucas von Hildebrandt, is another architectural marvel, adorned with a ceiling fresco by Paul Troger. The abbey museum showcases religious artworks, historical documents, and objects that illustrate the Benedictine order's long tradition at Göttweig.Visitors can explore the abbey's magnificent spaces through guided tours, attend concerts and exhibitions, or participate in spiritual events. The abbey also features a guesthouse for overnight stays and spiritual retreats. The Abbey Park offers scenic walking paths and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Danube River and the Wachau Valley. The highest apricot orchard in the Wachau is located on the grounds and is open to the public.Göttweig Abbey is not only a remarkable architectural monument but also a living spiritual center, with around 45 Benedictine monks continuing to live and work at the abbey today.