Basilica of the Assumption, Kleinmariazell Abbey
Austria·Altenmarkt an der Triesting·Archdiocese of Vienna
The Basilica of the Assumption, Kleinmariazell Abbey, originally founded as a Benedictine monastery, is situated in Lower Austria, Austria, along the historic Via Sacra pilgrim route. After its dissolution and subsequent use as a palace, the former monastery church was restored to its original purpose in 1998 and is renowned for the extensive frescoes by Johann Baptist Wenzel Bergl.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in 1134 or 1136 as a Benedictine monastery named Cella Sancte Marie.
- ›Dissolved in 1782 during the Josephine Reforms, leading to decay and eventual transformation into a palace.
- ›The former monastery church was repurposed as the local parish church.
- ›Underwent a general renovation, returning it to its original purpose in 1998.
- ›Features numerous frescoes painted by Johann Baptist Wenzel Bergl between 1764 and 1765.
Benedictines
About Basilica of the Assumption, Kleinmariazell Abbey
The Basilica of the Assumption, Kleinmariazell Abbey, is a significant religious site located in Kleinmariazell, a district of Altenmarkt an der Triesting in Lower Austria, Austria. Nestled in the Wienerwald region, the cloister is positioned along the historic Via Sacra, an ancient pilgrim route connecting Vienna to Mariazell. Originally established as the Benedictine monastery of Cella Sancte Marie, its history spans centuries of religious and secular transformation.
History and Restoration
The foundation of the church and monastery dates back to either 1134 or 1136, initiated by Heinrich and Rapoto of Schwarzburg-Nöstach along with Margrave Leopold III the Holy of Austria. For centuries, it served as a Benedictine monastic center. However, in 1782, the monastery was dissolved during the Josephine Reforms, leading to a period of decay. By 1825, the monastery and its lands were auctioned, and the complex was repurposed as a palace, with the former monastery church becoming the local parish church.
A pivotal moment in its recent history occurred in 1998 when, after a comprehensive renovation supported by the Archdiocese of Vienna, public funds, and private contributions, the church was restored to its original sacred purpose. This restoration aimed to adhere to modern principles of restoration and monument protection. More recently, in 2005, an apartment annex was constructed near the church complex to accommodate clergy, including eight priests.
Artistic Significance
The basilica is particularly celebrated for its rich artistic heritage, most notably the extensive frescoes painted by Johann Baptist Wenzel Bergl between 1764 and 1765. These vibrant artworks adorn the central dome, the pendentives surrounding it, and various walls within the church, showcasing Baroque artistry and contributing to the basilica's spiritual and aesthetic grandeur.
The community and the cloister itself are often referred to as Mariazell in Austria, Klein-Mariazell Monastery, or Klein-Mariazell Abbey, distinguishing it from the more famous Mariazell in Styria. Today, the ensemble of buildings represents a successful fusion of historical preservation and contemporary needs, with figures like Christoph Cardinal Schönborn and Deacon Franz Eckert closely associated with its revitalization.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Basilica of the Assumption, Kleinmariazell Abbey founded?
The church and monastery were founded in either 1134 or 1136. It was established as a Benedictine monastery named Cella Sancte Marie.
What happened to the monastery after its dissolution?
The monastery was dissolved in 1782 during the Josephine Reforms. It subsequently fell into decay and was later turned into a palace after being put up for auction in 1825.
Who painted the frescoes in the basilica?
Johann Baptist Wenzel Bergl painted numerous frescoes in the basilica between 1764 and 1765. These artworks adorn the central dome, pendentives, and walls of the church.
When was the church restored to its original purpose?
Following a general renovation supported by the Archdiocese of Vienna and public and private contributions, the church was returned to its original purpose in 1998.
Where is Kleinmariazell located?
Kleinmariazell is a district of Altenmarkt an der Triesting in Lower Austria, Austria, situated in the Wienerwald region. It lies on an old pilgrim's trail, the Via Sacra from Vienna to Mariazell.
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