Michaelbeuern: Abbey, Art and Monastic History

Michaelbeuern combines almost 1,300 years of monastic tradition with works of art and rooms from several centuries. If you are looking for a hotel in Michaelbeuern, the Benedictine Abbey offers a specific cultural point of reference when choosing where to stay. Its foundation is thought to date to 730. It is also the only medieval monastery in the State of Salzburg outside the state capital.

Monastic history across several periods

The collegiate church was consecrated in 1072. Its Baroque high altar dates from 1691 and was created by Meinrad Guggenbichler. One of the church’s altarpieces, by Johann Michael Rottmayr, depicts the Resurrection of Jesus from the tomb. The church thus brings together its early consecration history and Baroque works of art. The different dates help to show the long monastic tradition not as a single period, but as a history with distinct milestones.

The old summer choir and the abbey hall each also reflect their own history of decoration. In 1639, Silvester Paur completely covered the walls and vaulted ceiling of the summer choir with frescoes. The abbey hall is a Rococo room: the stucco work by the Schmid brothers dates from 1715, and the secco paintings by Franz Nikolaus Streicher from 1771. During a tour, you can see different techniques and periods represented in the abbey’s rooms.

Guided tours and historic rooms

A tour led by a monk offers insights into the Benedictine Abbey’s historic rooms, including the collegiate church, library and abbey hall. The tour takes in several of the places mentioned, while the individual decorative details offer a closer look at art and architectural history. As tour times may change, check the current schedule before you arrive.

In the dormitory, the monks’ former sleeping quarters, visitors can listen to the monks’ chants using a touchscreen. Videos are also available on a larger screen. This installation complements the historic rooms with audio and video material. Check before your trip whether the visitor installation is accessible. The old refectory, the monks’ former dining hall, now houses a museum. You should also check its current displays and access arrangements before your visit.

A visit to the cloister is documented for a specific period: at the end of September 2024, it was made accessible for a full day of free visits. This information describes the access arrangements at that time. If you would like to visit the cloister today, find out in advance about current visiting options.

The abbey grounds and the Baroque Tour

The Michaelbeuern Kellnerei is located right next to the abbey. As the abbey’s inn, it was first mentioned in a document in 1618. This date marks the inn’s earliest recorded mention and is distinct from the abbey’s assumed foundation in 730. Michaelbeuern’s monastic history is thus joined by another chapter of local history, documented much later.

The 77-kilometre Baroque Tour also offers a connection to the area: this circular route passes through Michaelbeuern, and the Benedictine Abbey is one of the Baroque sights along the way. The route offers another option for planning a visit alongside a tour of the abbey. As its route or conditions may change, it is advisable to check the latest information before setting out.

Discover more destinations: Mattsee, Koppl, Seeham, Plainfeld, Elsbethen, Siezenheim, Neumarkt Am Wallersee, Berndorf.

View the main travel guide: Salzburg-Flachgau.