Seekirchl (Holy Cross Church) in Seefeld
The Seekirchl, also called Holy Cross Church, is the landmark of Seefeld and one of Tyrol's most famous postcard motifs. The small, 17th-century Baroque votive church impresses with its octagonal architecture, striking dome, and freestanding bell tower. Originally built in the middle of Lake Kreuzsee, it now stands freely on a meadow on the outskirts of the village and is a popular photographic location in every season.
Short info:
- Where is the Seekirchl church? Möserer Str., 6100 Seefeld in Tirol
- When was the Seekirchl built? Between 1629 and 1666, on behalf of Archduke Leopold V.
- What is special about the Seekirchl? It originally stood in the Kreuzsee, which was drained in 1808.
- When is the best time to take photos? Especially in the late afternoon and during the golden hour with a mountain backdrop.
- What events take place here? Among other things, the Seefeld Christmas market during Advent as well as individual concerts and celebrations.
History & Architecture
The Seekirchl (Lake Church) is a Baroque votive church with an octagonal floor plan, a domed roof, and a freestanding bell tower. This architectural style is unique in Tyrol and clearly distinguishes the little church from other religious buildings in the region. Inside is a late Gothic crucifix from 1628, long venerated as miraculous. This made the church a popular place of pilgrimage. Its original location in the middle of Lake Kreuzsee gave the building an additional mystical aura that lives on in stories to this day.
Photography & best times of day
The Seekirchl is one of the most photographed motifs in SeefeldIt's particularly impressive in the late afternoon, when the sun bathes the façade in warm light. The golden hour also offers perfect conditions, with the mountain backdrop. In winter, the snowy landscape around Lake Wildsee and the Pfarrhügel hill creates a unique atmosphere that lends the Seekirchl church a particularly atmospheric feel.
Walking trails & surroundings
Several easy walking trails lead past the Seekirchl church, making it a popular destination. The family-friendly circular hike around Lake Wildsee and the Pfarrhügel (approx. 4.7 km, 1–1.5 hours) is particularly recommended, with the Seekirchl church as the highlight. The Seekirchl village ski jump trail also delights with wooden walkways, tennis courts, and beautiful panoramic views. From the Pfarrhügel, there's also a fantastic view of the little church with the mountains in the background.
Events & Activities
During Advent, the Seekirchl church becomes a romantic backdrop for the Seefeld Christmas market, where stalls, music, and lights create a magical atmosphere. Concerts and events also take place regularly in and around the church. A visit can also be perfectly combined with excursions in the region – for example, to Lake Wildsee, the Leutasch Ghost Gorge or to Lake Möser.
Practical information
Seefeld is located at an altitude of around 1,200 meters on a sunny plateau, surrounded by the Karwendel and Wetterstein mountains. This ensures pleasant temperatures in summer and good snow conditions in winter. The town is excellently connected: Seefeld has the highest ICE station in Europe. PlateauCard Guests use public transport free of charge and benefit from discounts on mountain railways and leisure activities.
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