Gurk Cathedral: Romanesque Art and St. Hemma
One of Austria's most important Romanesque churches
Photo: Johann Jaritz, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
- Duration
- 1.5 hours
- Languages
- German, English
This private tour opens up Gurk Cathedral in the Gurk Valley, one of the most important Romanesque churches in Austria. The focus is the crypt with its forest of columns and the tomb of St. Hemma, Carinthia's patron saint.
Hemma of Gurk founded a convent in the Gurk Valley in the 11th century, which later gave rise to the diocese of Gurk. The present cathedral was begun in the 12th century and impresses with its twin towers, massive walls and furnishings from many centuries.
In the crypt about a hundred marble columns hold up the vault, and here rests Hemma, still venerated as a saint. Your guide also shows you the high altar, the Lenten veil and, where possible, the Romanesque frescoes of the bishop's chapel, and shares stories of pilgrims, bishops and legends.
This is a private tour: just your own group, your pace and plenty of time for questions. Our licensed guides are happy to adjust the focus to your interests before the day.
Highlights
- A Romanesque cathedral with twin towers
- A crypt with about a hundred columns
- The tomb of St. Hemma
- Romanesque frescoes in the bishop's chapel
- Legends about Carinthia's patron
The route
-
1Cathedral square
Building and diocese history.
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2Nave
High altar and furnishings.
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3Crypt
Columns and Hemma's tomb.
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4Bishop's chapel
Romanesque wall paintings.
Who this tour is for
Art and church lovers, pilgrim groups and culture travelers in central Carinthia.
Frequently asked questions
Are entrance fees included?
No. Entrance fees for the crypt or bishop's chapel are not included in the tour price and are paid on site. Your guide will let you know in advance which tickets you will need.
How is the price calculated?
This is a private tour, so you pay one price per group, not per person. The amount depends on the duration and group size, and you receive a quote with your request.
Can we always see the bishop's chapel?
The bishop's chapel is open only on guided visits and at certain times. We check your date and include it when possible.
