The Basilica of Mariazell: History and Significance of a Spiritual Center
The Mariazell Basilica is not only one of the most important sacred buildings in Austria, but also a central location for pilgrims and believers from all over Europe. With its impressive architecture, rich history and spiritual significance, it attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.
Short info:
- Where is it located? Basilica Mariazell, Hauptplatz 1, 8630 Mariazell, Styria
- When was it built? Originally built in 1157, expanded and baroqued in the 17th century
- What is particularly worth seeing? Chapel of Grace with the statue of Mary, baroque altars, artistic frescoes and the treasury
- Are there guided tours? Yes, regular guided tours of history and architecture
- How much time should I plan? about 1 hour
- How much does the entrance fee cost? Access to the basilica is free; the treasury and guided tours are subject to a fee
- What events are there? Star pilgrimages, solemn processions and pilgrim masses
The History of the Basilica
origin in the 12th century
The history of the basilica begins in 1157, when the Benedictine monk Magnus brought a statue of the Virgin Mary to the region. According to legend, a large boulder blocked his path, whereupon he placed the statue in front of him and the rock broke. At the site of this event, Magnus built a small wooden church, which is the origin of today's Mariazell applies.
Gothic and the first expansion
In the 14th century, Mariazell an important place of pilgrimage. In order to accommodate the increasing number of visitors, the small wooden church was replaced by a Gothic church. The current chapel of grace in the basilica is a relic of this period.
Baroque transformation in the 17th century
During the Counter-Reformation, Mariazell a golden age. On behalf of the Viennese court, the church was significantly expanded between 1644 and 1683 by the Baroque architects Domenico Sciassia and Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach and received its current appearance. The mixture of Gothic and Baroque elements that make the basilica unique is particularly striking.
elevation to a minor basilica
In 1907, Mariazell Pope Pius X elevated it to the status of a “Basilica Minor”. This underlined the importance of the place as a national and international centre of Catholicism.
architecture and equipment
The basilica impresses with its striking double-tower façade, which shows both Gothic and Baroque influences. The mighty dome is another eye-catcher and symbolizes the sky.
Inside:
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The Chapel of Grace and the Magna Mater Austriae
At the heart of the basilica is the Chapel of Grace with the famous wooden statue of the Virgin Mary, which is venerated as the "Magna Mater Austriae" (Great Mother of Austria). The statue dates back to the 12th century and is the destination of numerous pilgrimages. The chapel itself, a Gothic building within the Baroque basilica, is richly decorated and offers a calm, spiritual atmosphere. -
Altars: The basilica has several magnificent baroque altars, including the main altar, which is dominated by golden figures and an ornate canopy.
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Ceiling frescoes: The frescoes tell the story Mariazells and the veneration of the Virgin Mary.
- Organ: The basilica's large organ is one of the most impressive in Austria and is regularly played at church services and concerts.
Spiritual Meaning and Pilgrimages
Mariazell has been a destination for pilgrims from all over Europe for centuries. Especially the annual star pilgrimage, where pilgrims from different countries and regions come to Mariazell is a highlight. The statue of Mary, also called "Magna Mater Austriae", is considered the patron saint of Austria and attracts people in search of comfort, healing and spiritual renewal.
Throughout the liturgical year, solemn services, processions and concerts take place in the Basilica. These events underline the role of Mariazell as a living religious center.
The Treasury
The basilica's treasury offers an insight into the rich history of the pilgrimage site. The exhibits include magnificent liturgical objects, valuable votive offerings and works of art from several centuries. Particularly impressive is a crown dedicated to the statue of the Magna Mater Austriae.
- MondayDay Off
- Monday07:30 - 19:30
- Tuesday07:30 - 19:30
- Wednesday07:30 - 19:30
- Thursday07:30 - 19:30
- Friday07:30 - 19:30
- Saturday07:30 - 19:30
- Sunday07:30 - 19:30
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