Just over an hour’s drive from the Pichlschloss country estate, the Benedictine Abbey of Seckau offers visitors a place of deep spirituality and architectural beauty. The abbey is regarded as one of the most important religious centres in Upper Styria and blends harmoniously into the gentle landscape of the Murtal valley.
The history of this impressive building dates back to 1143, when the first provost, Wernher von Galler, began construction of the three-nave basilica. In 1218, the Salzburg suffragan diocese of Seckau was established, granting the church the status of a cathedral and the epithet ‘Cathedral in the Mountains’, which is still used today. Following the dissolution of the canons’ monastery under Emperor Joseph II, the church was finally elevated to the status of a papal minor basilica in 1930. The monastery in Styria is now home to Benedictine monks and serves as both a parish and a monastic church. The abbey is an important monument that brings the connection between faith, art and regional identity to life.
A tour of the complex reveals a fascinating blend of different eras. Particularly worth seeing are the Seckau Miraculous Image and the modern design of the Angel Chapel by Herbert Boeckl, which provides a striking contrast to the historic building fabric. The architecture conveys a sense of tranquillity that goes far beyond a conventional sightseeing experience and invites you to pause for a moment and let the power of this historic site wash over you.
As well as its religious significance, the monastery also shapes the region through its renowned abbey school and various craft workshops. The monastery’s own distillery and patisserie are renowned far beyond the borders of Seckau, making a visit here a culinary experience in its own right. A visit can be perfectly combined with a stroll through the village of Seckau.
The abbey is open to visitors all year round and offers regular guided tours of the basilica and the art exhibitions. Why not combine your stay at Pichlschloss with a visit to the historic Benedictine abbey? Book your room or apartment directly online or send us a no-obligation enquiry.
