Kremsmünster-Haus

The Kremsmünster-Haus is located on the Alter Markt, the oldest square in Linz, where the medieval town hall and the main church of St. Martin are also situated. The palace was originally the residence of the Habsburg emperor Friedrich III, who died there on August 19, 1493. According to legend, he left the house to his loyal friend and advisor, Gotthard von Starhemberg, who later became the governor of Upper Austria.

In 1507, the house was acquired by the Kremsmünster Abbey, a Benedictine monastery founded in 777 by the Bavarian duke Tassilo III. The abbey was one of the most influential and wealthy institutions in the region, and owned several properties in Linz and elsewhere. The Kremsmünster-Haus served as the abbey’s townhouse, where the abbot and the monks stayed when they visited the city.

The palace underwent several renovations and expansions over the centuries, reflecting the changing styles and tastes of the times. Between 1578 and 1580, the Italian architect Christoph Canevale redesigned the house in the Renaissance style, adding a portal with the coat of arms of the abbey and the abbot. In 1616, the builder Max Martin Spaz raised the house by one floor and added two circular oriels with imperial domes, giving the palace a distinctive appearance.

The Kremsmünster-Haus survived the wars and fires that ravaged Linz over the years, and remained in the possession of the abbey until 1984, when it was sold to the City of Linz. The city undertook a complete restoration of the palace in 1984/85, preserving its historical features and enhancing its charm. Today, the Kremsmünster-Haus is a cultural and gastronomic destination, housing a modern restaurant with a beautiful outdoor dining area. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, from traditional Austrian cuisine to international specialties, and hosts events and concerts throughout the year.

The Kremsmünster-Haus is a must-see for anyone who visits Linz, as it offers a glimpse into the city’s past and present. The palace is not only a stunning example of architecture, but also a witness to the history of Linz and the Kremsmünster Abbey, two institutions that have shaped the identity and culture of Upper Austria for centuries.