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Göttweig Abbey: Austria's Majestic Baroque Monastery

Discover Austria's majestic Göttweig Abbey: a Baroque masterpiece, spiritual center, and UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of the Wachau Valley.

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Göttweig Abbey, a Benedictine monastery near Krems in Lower Austria, stands as a magnificent example of Baroque architecture and a spiritual center with over 900 years of history. Perched atop a hill overlooking the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape, it offers breathtaking views and a rich cultural experience.

A brief summary to Göttweig Abbey

Local tips

  • Visit the Imperial Staircase, one of the most beautiful Baroque staircases in Europe, and admire the stunning ceiling fresco by Paul Troger.
  • Explore the Abbey Museum in the Imperial Wing to experience the Baroque splendor and view religious artworks and historical artifacts.
  • Take a stroll through the Abbey Park for panoramic views of the Danube River and the Wachau Valley.
  • Visit the apricot orchard (open in the warm season) and sample local apricot products.
  • Check the schedule for concerts and special exhibitions held at the abbey.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Göttweig Abbey is located near Furth bei Göttweig and is easily accessible by car. From Krems, follow the B33 south, then take the L7074 to Furth bei Göttweig. Follow signs to the abbey. Parking is available on site. Parking costs are included in the entrance fee. Note that parking may be limited during peak season or special events.

  • Public Transport

    From Krems an der Donau, take a bus to Furth bei Göttweig. From the bus stop in Furth, it's approximately a 30-minute uphill walk to the abbey. Check local bus schedules for current fares and times. A single bus fare is approximately €2-4. Alternatively, a taxi from Krems to Göttweig Abbey will cost approximately €25-35.

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Discover more about Göttweig Abbey

Göttweig Abbey, often referred to as the "Austrian Montecassino" due to its prominent hilltop location, has been a beacon of Benedictine life and culture for centuries. Founded in 1083 by Bishop Altmann of Passau, the abbey initially housed Augustinian canons before transitioning to the Benedictine Order in 1094. For over 900 years, monks have lived and worked here, dedicating themselves to prayer, pastoral care, and the preservation of the monastery's heritage. The abbey's architecture is a major draw, with the current Baroque design largely attributed to Johann Lucas von Hildebrandt, who began rebuilding the monastery in the 18th century after a devastating fire in 1718. While the ambitious reconstruction was never fully completed, what remains is a stunning testament to Baroque grandeur. Key highlights include the Abbey Church, a lavishly decorated example of ecclesiastical architecture, and the Imperial Staircase, one of the most magnificent Baroque staircases in Europe, adorned with a breathtaking ceiling fresco by Paul Troger. Visitors can explore the Abbey Museum, located in the Imperial Wing, to experience the Baroque splendor of the imperial court architect Johann Lucas von Hildebrandt. The museum showcases religious artworks, historical documents, and objects that illustrate the Benedictine order's long tradition at Göttweig. The abbey also features the highest apricot orchard in the Wachau Valley, where visitors can learn about and sample local apricot products. Göttweig Abbey is not only an architectural monument but also a living spiritual center. Approximately 45 Benedictine monks continue to live and work at the abbey, following the Rule of Saint Benedict. The abbey also plays an important role in the region, serving as a tourist attraction and a spiritual retreat. Fun Fact: The Göttweig convent was probably the oldest and longest existing women's convent of a Lower Austrian double monastery.

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