Heiligenkreuz Abbey

About

„Stift Heiligenkreuz“, which means the „Abbey of Heiligenkreuz“, is a beautiful and living Cistercian monastery, close to Vienna, the capital of Austria. Stift Heiligenkreuz is the second-oldest Cistercian monastery in the world and the oldest continuously active and inhabited one, now full of young vocations. In September 2007 it was blessed by an official visit by Pope Benedict XVI. Stift Heiligenkreuz, peacefully situated in the middle of the „Wienerwald“, the Vienna woods, is one of the most beautiful medieval monasteries in the world. It was founded in 1133 by St. Leopold III of the House of Babenberg. Currently the monastery has 105 members, 18 affiliated parishes and a Pontifical Theological Academy (founded 1802). Tour with audio guide: open daily; Monday - Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. (last entry 10:30 a.m.), 2:00 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. (last entry 4:30 p.m.) Sundays and public holidays: 2:00 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. (last entry 4:30 p.m.)

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes