Göttweig Abbey
Facts and practical information
Perched atop a hill overlooking the Danube River, Göttweig Abbey is a stunning cultural and historical landmark in Austria, renowned for its Baroque architecture and spiritual heritage. This Benedictine monastery, founded in 1083, is often referred to as Austria's Monte Cassino due to its elevated location and the panoramic views it offers of the Wachau Valley.
Göttweig Abbey serves not only as a place of monastic life but also as a museum that welcomes visitors from around the world. The heart of the Abbey is its magnificent Imperial Staircase, adorned with Paul Troger's ceiling fresco, which is one of the largest in the world and a masterpiece of Baroque art. The fresco depicts the "Praise of the Monastic State" and sets the tone for the grandeur and artistic significance of the entire complex.
The museum housed within the Abbey offers a journey through its thousand-year history, showcasing religious artifacts, manuscripts, and art that reflect the Abbey's central role in the cultural and spiritual life of the region. The exhibitions are thoughtfully curated, providing insight into the monastic traditions, the Abbey's vineyard, and the preservation of its art and architecture.
The Abbey is also noted for its wine production, a tradition that dates back to its founding. The monks have been cultivating vines and producing their own wine for centuries, which visitors can taste and purchase on-site, linking the spiritual with the sensory in a unique blend of culture and viticulture.
Göttweig Abbey – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)
Nearby attractions include: Gozzoburg, Steiner Tor, Piaristenkirche, Kunsthalle Krems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is Göttweig Abbey open?
- Monday 10 am - 6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am - 6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am - 6 pm
- Thursday 10 am - 6 pm
- Friday 10 am - 6 pm
- Saturday 10 am - 6 pm
- Sunday 10 am - 6 pm