The Franciscan Church in Salzburg

The Franciscan Church is one of the oldest churches in Salzburg. It was built on an ancient venue where people used to pray and was originally called „Unserer Lieben Frau“.

The first restoration is mentioned in records in the 8th century and was due to the plans of the bishop Virgil. Until 1139 the church belonged to the St. Peter Abbey.

After the church – as well as five other chapels – burned down, it was only the nave that could be preserved. It was this nave that was integrated in the new building – today’s Franciscan Church – in 1408. Architect and builder was Hans von Burghausen, after his death Stephan Krumenauer finished the work in 1461. Hans von Burghausen and Stephan Krumenauer have both perpetuated their names on one of the columns in the church.

From the church’s nave there is a direct connecting corridor across the Franziskanergasse to the Franciscan Monastery. Through a connecting arrangement the Salzburg Residence can also be reached from within the Franciscan Church.

Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach has built the high altar in the years 1709/1710 and integrated the Madonna and child from the former gothic winged altar.

One of the things to do in Salzburg is to take a look at and listen to the bells of the Franciscan Church. The big Marien-bell chimes every friday at 3pm in commemoration of the hour of Jesus‘ death. The small Armeseelen-bell is to be heard every day after the curfew.

From our hotel which is located close to the city of Salzburg it is only a few minutes ride with the bus or car to the Franciscan Church. Send us a non-binding booking request to get more information about our special offers at Hotel Kamml.