Kremsmünster Abbey: Tassilo Chalice and Observatory
A Benedictine abbey with treasures and an early high-rise
Photo: Isiwal, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
- Duration
- 2.0 hours
- Languages
- German, English
Kremsmünster Abbey in Upper Austria was founded in 777 and keeps the Tassilo Chalice, one of the great treasures of early medieval art. This private tour also visits the abbey observatory, often called one of Europe's first high-rise buildings.
Legend says Duke Tassilo III of Bavaria founded the Benedictine abbey where his son died in a hunting accident. The chalice named after him has belonged to the abbey for more than 1,200 years.
In the 18th century the monks built the Mathematical Tower, a multi-story observatory filled with scientific collections. It is regarded as one of the first high-rise buildings on the continent.
A special delight are the Baroque fish ponds, elegant basins with arcades and statues where fish were once kept for Lent. Your guide brings together monastic life, art and natural science. Monks still live and work at the abbey today, which also runs a well-known school.
Highlights
- Tassilo Chalice from the 8th century
- Mathematical Tower observatory
- Baroque fish ponds
- Imperial Hall and abbey church
- Founding legend of Duke Tassilo
The route
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1Abbey courtyard
Overview and founding story
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2Abbey church
Baroque interior
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3Fish ponds
Arcaded water basins
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4Observatory
Science in the monastery
Who this tour is for
Ideal for art and science lovers and anyone curious about a working monastery.
Frequently asked questions
Are entrance fees included?
No. Entrance fees and tickets for cable cars, trains, boats or tastings are not included and are paid on site. Your guide is happy to tell you in advance what to expect.
Is the price per person or per group?
This is a private tour with a licensed Austrian tour guide. The price is per group, not per person, so it is just you and your own party.
Is the Tassilo Chalice always on display?
The chalice is part of the art collections and is not shown at all times. Your guide checks in advance which areas are open on your date.
