Pilgrimage Church Maria Plain

Since the 17th century, Maria Plain, located to the north-east of Salzburg City, has been a popular pilgrimage site. Visitors, hikers, and pilgrims are always captivated by the famous pilgrimage chapel, Mount Calvary, and the beautiful countryside all around.

The tale of Maria Plain dates back to the Thirty Years War. The allegedly miraculous picture “Mary with Baby Jesus” by Rudolf von Grimming arrived at the Plainberg outside Salzburg in 1652 and was stored in a wooden chapel. The original painting had to be returned after only a year. However, due to the ongoing stream of pilgrims, a replica of the painting was created and kept in a new church. Archbishop Max Gandolf wanted to build a grand pilgrimage chapel in 1671. The church was dedicated on August 12, 1674, according to plans set up by Giovanni Antonio Dario. They were also successful in bringing the original picture back to Salzburg two years later.

The three-story façade with two towers was inspired after Salzburg Cathedral, but it has the spirit of a pilgrimage chapel you could see out in the country. The church of Maria Plain on the Plainberg may be seen from a long distance. The inside of the church has a golden atmosphere that is accented by blue and white tones. The iconic artwork by Maria Plain is the main feature of the high altar itself.

The Mountain Calvary on the Plainberg’s southern slope was erected in the 17th century. It is one of only two in the region of Salzburg and consists of four chapels leading to a crucifixion group.

The pilgrimage church of Maria Plain was especially close to the Mozart family because of their intense religiosity. This is also why Mozart fan Johann Evangelist Engl claimed Mozart produced his composition, the “Coronation Mass,” for a celebration in 1779 to crown the famous artwork at Maria Plain. Even today, a yearly performance of the piece honors both the picture and Mozart’s creativity.

Pilgrims go to Maria Plain, where their ascent to the summit of the Plainberg is rewarded with breathtaking views of Salzburg and the surrounding Alps. Pilgrims and hikers on the Austrian portions of the Way of Saint James and the Arnoweg also travel through Maria Plain. This pilgrimage site also offers one of the most gorgeous wedding venues in Salzburg.