The façade of the basilica alone is worth a look: painted in white and ochre, it is made up of twin towers surrounding a statue of the Virgin Mary. It's an original structure, but in no way prepares you for the splendour of the basilica's interior.
Visit the basilica of Wilten
The basilica of Wilten, a little way out on the outskirts of Innsbruck, is a remarkable example of 18th-century Austrian architecture. In fact, it has the reputation of being one of the most beautiful Rococo churches in the country, and the second largest church in the city after the Premonstratensian abbey church. This architectural gem is located along the road to the Brenner Pass, close to the Bergisel ski jump. You can combine these two visits if you feel like it.
The basilica originally belonged to the Premonstratensians, priests who combined the sacred ministry with a contemplative life. When they rebuilt the building in 1259, they elevated it to the status of a parish, which attracted pilgrims. Later, in the 18th century, Abbot Franz de Paula Penz added to the edifice: he called on the best Bavarian artists of the time to decorate the building with sublime gilding and frescoes.
© diegograndi / 123RF
Why go there?
© klug / 123RF
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Step inside and you'll be impressed by the high vaults and the profusion of white marble and gilding. The basilica has a single nave with massive pilasters. The ceiling paintings, in shades of soft pink, green and gold, are well worth a visit!
These very delicate paintings, by the artist Matthaus Gunther, depict famous biblical scenes with various women. In particular, there is a beautiful painting of Judith showing the head of Holofernes to the people, as a symbol of her victory over evil.
© Innsbruck Tourism Official Channel / YouTube
You can also admire statues by famous artists such as Franz Xaver Feichtmayr and Anton Gigl. The statue of the Virgin Mary, located on the high altar, is the most important in the church: it has been the object of pilgrimage since the Middle Ages! Known as "Our Lady of the Four Columns", she still attracts many pilgrims today, both for her superb Gothic style and for the miracles she is supposed to perform.
A Madonna worshipped by Roman legionaries?
Legend has it that during the Roman Empire, legionnaires worshipped the effigy of a Madonna called "Veldidena" here. Archaeologists have actually found the remains of a 5th-century early Christian church beneath the basilica, which tends to confirm this hypothesis.
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Legend has it that during the Roman Empire, legionnaires worshipped the effigy of a Madonna called "Veldidena" here. Archaeologists have actually found the remains of a 5th-century early Christian church beneath the basilica, which tends to confirm this hypothesis.
The Little Singers of Wilten
Did you know that the basilica was also home to "les petits chanteurs de Wilten", Europe's oldest choir, founded in the 13th century?
You can regularly attend performances during the various religious festivals (around Easter or Christmas). It's a very moving moment, when the 190 boys and young men, led by Johannes Steche, sing Bach's most beautiful religious arias in their clear voices.
© wiltenboyschoir, Wiltener Sängerknaben, Knabenchor / YouTube
👛 Tickets between €9 and €15 on the door, and €5 to €12 in advance.
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