Große Basilika: A Stone Sanctuary in Waidhofen an der Thaya
Discover the Große Basilika near Waidhofen an der Thaya: a monumental land art sculpture blending nature and culture in Austria's Waldviertel.
The Große Basilika, or Great Basilica, is a land art installation near Waidhofen an der Thaya, Lower Austria. Created by Austrian sculptor Franz Xaver Ölzant in 1994, it features 97 diorite boulders arranged in a semi-circular formation, mirroring the town's church architecture and inviting contemplation.
A brief summary to Große Basilika
- Basilika 1, Waidhofen an der Thaya, 3830, AT
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late evening for the best light and shadow effects on the stones.
- Take some time to sit on the meditation stones and reflect on the surrounding nature.
- Combine your visit with a picnic in the shade of the large boulders.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Hauptplatz (main square) in Waidhofen an der Thaya, walk along Ziegengeiststraße, passing the Waldrapp aviary. After approximately 100 meters, turn left onto Vestenöttingerstraße. Shortly before the bypass road, turn right onto the side road. The sculpture group will be reached after a short time. The walk takes approximately 20-30 minutes. No costs are associated with walking.
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Public Transport
The central bus station in Waidhofen an der Thaya is located in Gymnasiumstraße. From there, take a bus to a stop closer to the Basilika, such as Waidhofen/Thaya Ziegengeiststr. (check local schedules for the most convenient line). From the bus stop, follow Ziegengeiststraße and then Vestenöttingerstraße as described in the walking directions. A single bus fare within Waidhofen an der Thaya is approximately €2-3.
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Driving
From the center of Waidhofen, follow Ziegengeiststraße. Turn left onto Vestenöttingerstraße, and then turn right onto the side road before the bypass. Limited free parking is available near the site. Alternatively, park in Waidhofen and walk (see walking directions). Parking in designated short-term parking zones in Waidhofen is free for the first 120 minutes on weekdays (Monday to Friday, 8:00 to 18:00) and Saturdays (8:00 to 12:00), requiring a parking disc to indicate arrival time.
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