Kremsmünster Benedictine abbey

Much of Austria's history can be seen in the Kremsmünster Benedictine Abbey. You can admire the legendary Tassilo chalice in the treasury. You can also visit one of Austria's most attractive and extensive libraries as well as the Kremsmünster Abbey.

Discover Austrian history

Founded in 777 A. D. by the Bavarian Duke Tassilo III, Kremsmünster Abbey counts amongst one of Upper Austria's most important sights. Its current form and scope dates back to the 17th century. The architect Jakob Prandtauer knew how to make the most of the abbey's dominant location. For example, the south wing measures an impressive 290 metres. It houses the Kremsmünster Abbey reception rooms, refectory, library and the Imperial Hall. On the east side of the building the 51 metre high observatory tower lends the building its character.

Kremsmünster Abbey has housed a school since 1549 which has also produced a number of prominent ex-pupils. The Austrian poet Adalbert Stifter used to occupy the school benches here. Of course, Kremsmünster Abbey is still a seminary today: more than 60 Benedictine monks are actively engaged here in teaching as well as pastoral care. If you are interested in getting to know about everyday life in the seminary, you can become a "temporary monk" during Holy Week. However: Only men are allowed.

Visiting Kremsmünster Abbey

You shouldn't miss visiting Kremsmünster Abbey, completed in 1277. The church was later renovated in the Baroque style under the direction of famous Italian architects. An outstanding example of this cultural period is the large high altarpiece by Johann Andreas Wolf as well as the Baroque angels by Johann Michael Zürn the Younger. Equally worth a visit: the famous Gunter grave in the church. Impressive: the large library in the Kremsmünster Abbey. It was designed by Carlo Antonio Carlone in 1680 and counts amongst Austria's largest religious libraries. 160,000 valuable documents, books and  de luxe volumes are being conserved here for posterity.