Leslie Massey
Linz, Austria's third-largest city, is a beautiful place to visit, with plenty of attractions to keep you entertained. The city is easily accessible by train from other Austrian cities, including Vienna and Graz. The small city centre is perfect for strolling and exploring the charming alleyways. Don't miss the Hauptplatz, the city's main square, and the Trinity Column, which stands at 20 metres high. Linz is also home to several stunning churches, including the Pilgrimage Basilica Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows, and the former cathedral, also known as the Jesuit Church, where the composer Anton Bruckner worked as an organist in the 19th century. The city also boasts Austria's largest cathedral, which was designed to fit all 20,000 inhabitants of the time. In addition to its religious sites, Linz offers a lively square with restaurants and cafes, a flea market, and a tram ride that provides beautiful views of the city and the Danube River.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Transport | Accessible by train from other Austrian cities. |
| Time to visit | Choose mid-seasons for mild temperatures or winter for Christmas atmosphere. |
| Events | Brucknerfest classical music festival in September. |
| Attractions | Hauptplatz, Trinity Column, former cathedral (Alter Dom), Linz Cathedral, Pilgrimage Church, Pöstlingbergbahn, Basilica of Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows, St. Peter's Abbey, museum dedicated to national-socialistic forced laborers |
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What You'll Learn
- Visit the pilgrimage church on Pöstlingbergbahn mountain, an important landmark
- Explore the charming alleyways and Hauptplatz, the main square
- Discover Linz Cathedral, Austria's largest cathedral
- Take a tram ride from Linz Hauptplatz for views of the city and the Danube
- Visit in September for the Brucknerfest classical music festival
Visit the pilgrimage church on Pöstlingbergbahn mountain, an important landmark
One of the most important landmarks in Linz, Austria, is the pilgrimage church on Pöstlingberg mountain. Constructed in the 18th century, the church has become a significant pilgrimage site and is also a popular venue for weddings. The church is dedicated to Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows and is located at the mountain station of the Pöstlingbergbahn, a short walk uphill. The site offers breathtaking views of Linz, particularly from a nearby viewing platform that overlooks the city and the Danube River.
The Pöstlingbergbahn itself is a delightful tram ride from Linz Hauptplatz, lasting around 20 minutes. The return fare is affordable, and the journey offers a unique perspective on the city and its surroundings. Once you arrive at the mountain station, in addition to visiting the pilgrimage church, you can explore the park or simply enjoy the panoramic views.
The pilgrimage church on Pöstlingberg mountain holds religious and historical significance. It is a place where pilgrims converge, often as part of a larger journey or spiritual quest. Such churches are often located near the graves of saints or house saintly relics, such as bones, books, clothing fragments, or objects associated with Jesus Christ's life, like pieces of the cross or crown of thorns.
The architecture and design of the church contribute to its overall allure. While this particular church's architectural style is unclear, other pilgrimage churches, like the one in Wies, Germany, exemplify the beauty of Bavarian Rococo. The intricate details, lively colours, and masterful use of light and space in these churches create a sense of richness and refinement that leaves visitors in awe.
A visit to the pilgrimage church on Pöstlingberg mountain offers not only a spiritual experience but also a chance to immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural traditions associated with pilgrimage sites. The church's status as a landmark and its stunning visuals, coupled with the ease of access via the Pöstlingbergbahn tram, make it a must-visit destination when exploring Linz, Austria.
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Explore the charming alleyways and Hauptplatz, the main square
Hauptplatz, the main square of Linz, is a wonderful place to explore. Established in 1230, it is one of the largest enclosed squares in Austria and is filled with stunning buildings of historical and architectural interest. The square is also known for its beautiful Baroque architecture, with the majority of the historical Baroque buildings located within the main square area or a short walk away.
The Holy Trinity Column, a 20-metre-high white marble monument, stands tall in the centre of the square. It was built in the first quarter of the 18th century to commemorate those who perished in plagues, wars, and disasters, and to seek protection from future calamities. The Baroque old city hall, dating back to 1509, is another notable structure in the square, serving as the residence of the mayor and the city council.
The surrounding buildings showcase impressive Baroque and Renaissance facades, with the old Town Hall and the University of Arts and Industrial Design standing out. The Feichtinger House, home to Linz's famous glockenspiel, and the Kirchmayr House, a blend of Gothic and neo-Baroque architecture, add to the square's allure. The Carl Spangler Bank, located in the late Gothic Schmidtberger House, and the two neo-classical bridgehead buildings on the north side, which connect to the Nibelungen Bridge over the Danube, are also worth admiring.
The Hauptplatz is easily accessible via the Landstraße, which leads to the Pigeon Market and the square itself. It is situated near the Danube River, making Linz an important port of trade. The square also serves as a hub for city sightseeing trains and old-style Pöstlingberg trains, providing easy access to other parts of the city. Whether you're strolling through the charming alleyways, admiring the architecture, or enjoying a meal at one of the many restaurants and cafes, exploring Hauptplatz is a delightful experience.
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Discover Linz Cathedral, Austria's largest cathedral
Austria's largest cathedral, the New Cathedral (Mariä-Empfängnis-Dom) in Linz, is a must-see when visiting the city. Construction plans for the cathedral began in 1855 by Bishop Franz-Josef Rudigier, with the first stone laid in 1862. The building was consecrated as the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in 1924 by Bishop Johannes Maria Gföllner.
The New Cathedral is a towering structure, standing at 134.6 to 135 meters tall and providing 20,000 seats. It is just two meters shorter than the tallest cathedral in Austria, St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna. The original plans for a higher spire were not approved as no building could be taller than the South Tower of St. Stephen's Cathedral at the time.
The cathedral boasts stunning stained glass windows, including the famous Linz Window, which depicts the history of Linz. Other windows contain portraits of the church's sponsors. Some windows were damaged during World War II and have been replaced with modern art displays. The nativity scene in the church burial vault, with figures by S. Osterrieder, is also noteworthy.
The New Cathedral is home to a magnificent organ, the "Rudigierorgel," built by the renowned Danish organ builder Marcussen & Søn in 1968. The cathedral also features seven swinging bells, cast by Anton Gugg in 1901 and hung in the tower on two levels. The largest bell, the "Immaculata," weighs eight tons and is located on the lower level.
The Old Cathedral, also known as the Church of Ignatius or the Jesuit Church, is another significant religious site in Linz. Built between 1669 and 1683 in the Baroque style, it served as the cathedral of the Diocese of Linz from 1785 to 1909. The interior is lavishly decorated with pink marble columns, three side chapels, and a detailed wooden pulpit. The high altar, created by Giovanni Battista Barbarino and Giovanni Battista Colombo, incorporates numerous statues. The Old Cathedral holds a special place in musical history, with Anton Bruckner serving as the cathedral organist from 1856 to 1868, and his compositions being performed here.
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Take a tram ride from Linz Hauptplatz for views of the city and the Danube
One of the best ways to explore Linz is by taking a tram ride from Linz Hauptplatz. The tram ride offers stunning views of the city and the Danube River, providing a unique perspective on the area's beauty. Here's everything you need to know about this exciting experience:
The Tram Ride:
The tram ride from Linz Hauptplatz is an enjoyable and affordable way to see the city. It takes about 20 minutes and offers a great opportunity to relax and take in the sights. The tram departs from the main square in the centre of Linz, known as Linz Hauptplatz, and climbs up to the top of a hill or small mountain at the northern end of the city. This historic tram ride is called the Pöstlingbergbahn, and it's quite an experience!
The Views:
As the tram ascends, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the cityscape and the majestic Danube River. The panoramic outlook from the top is definitely worth the trip. Take in the beauty of Linz's architecture and the natural beauty of the surrounding area. On a clear day, you might even spot some landmarks in the distance!
Things to Do at the Top:
Once you reach the mountain station, there's plenty to explore. The 18th-century pilgrimage basilica, Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows, is a must-see. It's become one of the city's landmarks and offers wonderful views of Linz from a nearby platform. You can also stroll around the park, visit the pilgrimage church, or simply enjoy the fresh air and scenic surroundings.
Practical Information:
Tickets for the tram ride can be purchased from dispensing machines or in advance from stores like "Trafiken" (tobacco and magazine shops). The Linz Card (available for 24, 48, or 72 hours) offers a great deal, as a ride up and down the mountain is included for free! The tram operates daily, with extended hours on weekends and holidays.
So, whether you're looking to relax, sightsee, or capture memorable photos, the tram ride from Linz Hauptplatz is a perfect choice. It's a great way to experience the charm of Linz and create lasting memories of your time in Austria.
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Visit in September for the Brucknerfest classical music festival
Linz, Austria, is a city with a rich cultural offering. One of the best times to visit is in September, when the Brucknerfest classical music festival takes place. This festival celebrates the life and work of Anton Bruckner, the Austrian composer who worked as the cathedral organist in Linz from 1856 to 1868.
The festival is held at the Brucknerhaus Linz, a concert hall that regularly hosts musical performances throughout the year. The programme for Brucknerfest usually includes a broad spectrum of artists, from up-and-coming musicians to established performers. In the past, the festival has featured artists such as Mauro Peter, Thomas Quasthoff, Howard Griffiths, Antonio Pappano, and Christoph von Dohnányi.
The festival also includes performances by symphony orchestras, such as the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra and the Bamberg Symphony Orchestra. In addition to the musical performances, the festival usually includes a variety of events, such as masterclasses and exhibitions.
The 2023 edition of the festival, taking place from 4 September, is a special one. It marks 200 years since Bruckner's birth, and the festival will celebrate the compositional work of women, under the slogan "The Eternal Feminine Draws Us On". The programme will include works by female composers such as Emilia Mayer, Dora Pejačević, Florence Price, Amy Beach, and Louise Farrenc.
So, if you're a classical music enthusiast, visiting Linz in September for the Brucknerfest is a must. You'll get to enjoy world-class performances, discover new talent, and learn more about the life and work of Anton Bruckner, all while exploring the beautiful city of Linz.
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Frequently asked questions
Some must-see attractions in Linz include the pilgrimage basilica Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows, the former cathedral (now known as the Jesuit Church), the Linz Cathedral, and the museum dedicated to national-socialistic forced labourers.
A popular activity is to take a 20-minute tram ride from Linz Hauptplatz, which offers beautiful views of the city and the river Danube from a viewing platform. You can also stroll through the charming alleyways in the city centre and discover Hauptplatz, the city's bustling main square.
Choose the mid-seasons (spring or autumn) for mild temperatures, or winter to enjoy the Christmas atmosphere. In September, you can attend the Brucknerfest classical music festival. Avoid visiting on Mondays, as most museums are closed.
The city is easily accessible by train from other Austrian cities. It takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes from Vienna, and 3 hours from Graz. You can also take a direct train from Vienna's airport.
