Wilten Basilica (Parish Church of the Immaculate Conception)

The Wilten Basilica, also known as the Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception or Our Lady under the Four Pillars, is a Roman Catholic church that serves as the main place of worship for the parish of Wilten in the diocese of Innsbruck. Additionally, it is well-known as a popular destination for pilgrims who come to venerate the miraculous image of the Virgin Mary that is housed in the church.

History of Wilten Basilica

The history of Wilten Basilica dates back to the early years of Christianity in the region. Wilten is considered the mother parish of the city of Innsbruck because it holds the distinction of being the oldest Catholic parish in the area. Archaeologists discovered the remains of an earlier church beneath the current church building. These remains have been dated back to the 5th century, during the time when the Roman Empire was collapsing and the Christian faith was spreading.

Legend has it that the Roman legionnaires from Veldidena Castle, which was located nearby, used to worship an image of the Virgin Mary at this location. The image was said to have been brought by Saint Cassian, a missionary who evangelized the Tyrol region in the 4th century. The image was revered as a source of protection and healing for the soldiers and the local people.

The Premonstratensian order, a religious community founded by Saint Norbert in the 12th century, took over the parish of Wilten in 1140. They established Wilten Abbey, a monastery that still exists today. In 1259, a church dedicated to Our High Lady was built and soon became a popular destination for pilgrims who came to honor the image of Mary. The church was enlarged and renovated several times over the centuries, but it eventually became too small and dilapidated to accommodate the growing number of worshippers.

The current church building was constructed between 1751 and 1756 to replace the old, run-down structure. It was designed in the rococo style by Joseph Stapf from Pfronten, who also created many of the sculptures that adorn the church. The construction was led by the pastor and master builder Franz de Paula Penz, who was also responsible for many other churches in the region. The Wilten parish church, which holds great historical significance, was officially inaugurated in 1957 by Pope Pius XII and later designated as a papal minor basilica, a title that recognizes its importance and dignity.

Art and Architecture of Wilten Basilica

The Wilten Basilica is a masterpiece of art and architecture that showcases the beauty and elegance of the rococo style. The rococo style, which emerged in the 18th century, is characterized by lightness, grace, and ornamentation. It reflects the spirit of the Enlightenment, a period of intellectual and cultural flourishing in Europe.

The church’s interior is adorned with a beautiful combination of delicate colors, complemented by abundant gold accents and intricate rococo stucco work created by Franz Xaver Feuchtmayer and Anton Gigl. The ceiling paintings by Matthäus Günther from Augsburg depict various scenes from the life of Mary, such as the Annunciation, the Visitation, the Nativity, the Presentation, and the Assumption. The paintings are framed by elaborate floral and geometric motifs that create a harmonious and dynamic effect.

The high altar, which is the focal point of the church, is topped by a magnificent crown that symbolizes the glory of Mary. Beneath a radiant wreath, there is a remarkable image of the Mother of God with child. This statue, carved from sandstone in the High Gothic style during the first half of the 14th century, stands approximately 90 cm tall. It is this statue that has bestowed the church with its name, Our Lady under the Four Pillars, as it is supported by four columns that represent the four cardinal virtues: prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance. The statue is also known as the Gnadenbild, or the image of grace, as it is believed to have miraculous powers. Many pilgrims come to pray before the statue and ask for Mary’s intercession.

The baroque facade of the church is a stunning architectural feature that contrasts with the rococo interior. The facade is divided into two sections by a horizontal cornice. The lower section features four pilasters that support a triangular pediment. The upper section features a curved gable that is decorated with statues of angels and saints. The facade is crowned by a dome that is flanked by two towers. The dome and the towers are covered with colorful tiles that create a striking visual effect.

The spacious square in front of the church enhances its beauty and grandeur. The square is surrounded by a colonnade that connects the church with the Wilten Abbey. The colonnade features statues of the apostles and the founders of the Premonstratensian order. The square also features a fountain that depicts Saint John Nepomuk, the patron saint of bridges and waterways, who was martyred in Prague in 1393.

The Organ of Wilten Basilica

The Wilten Basilica possesses a 24-register organ that was crafted by Franz Reinisch II from Steinach am Brenner in 1894. This organ was installed within the original case that dates back to 1758. The case, which was designed by Joseph Stapf, is a splendid example of rococo craftsmanship. It features elaborate carvings of angels, flowers, and musical instruments. The organ is located on the gallery above the main entrance of the church.

The organ underwent a major restoration in 2003 by the company Pirchner from Steinach am Brenner. The restoration aimed to preserve the original sound and appearance of the instrument, while also updating its technical features. Today, the organ is equipped with 24 registers spread across two manuals and a pedal. The organ has a mechanical action and a tracker system. The organ is used for liturgical and concert purposes and is considered one of the finest organs in the region.

Innsbruck, Austria