300 years of pilgrimage church Christkindl: a place of peace and hope!

300 years of pilgrimage church Christkindl: a place of peace and hope!

Steyr, Österreich - The festive atmosphere in Steyr was unmistakable on June 7, 2025 when the city celebrated the 300th anniversary of the baroque pilgrimage church "to the divine Christ child". This anniversary celebration attracted numerous pilgrims who made a pilgrimage from Steyr to Christkindl.

The history of this special church began many centuries ago with a small wax figure of the Jesus child, the Ferdinand Sertl, a choir regent from Steyr. This figure, just ten centimeters high, found its place in a spruce strain in the so -called "forest under Underm Himel". Due to a miraculous healing of Fallucht, the Sertl experienced there, the first prayer location was created, which finally led to today's church. The construction itself started in 1702, and the ceremonial inauguration by Bishop Josephus Dominikus Lamberg von Passau took place on July 26, 1725. This is also reported by meinzirk.at on the important role that the pilgrimage church plays for the region.

a place of peace and hope

Governor Thomas Stelzer found clear words about the meaning of Christkindl: "It is a symbol of peace and cooperation." In the context of international conflicts, such as the war, which prevented the ignition of peace light in Bethlehem last year, the pilgrimage church is more of hope than ever. Especially in this festive time, the spiritual support that this site offers seems of great importance for many people.

The festival service was led by diocesan bishop Manfred Scheuer, who, with his speech, recalled the captivating history of the pilgrimage church. He emphasized how modest everything started: with a small wax figure and the faith of a single man. The church itself, as a grandiose baroque building designed by Carlo Antonio Carlone, unites various architectural styles and attracts visitors from near and far. Wikipedia also confirms that the church is now listed as a major monument in the Federal Monument Office.

tradition and modern

The pilgrimage church, which is also known as "Christkindl under heaven", is not only a religious place, but also a cultural heritage that combines building history and art. In the high altar there is not only the famous wax figure, but also a remarkable spruce strain that is part of the altar. In addition, the organ, built by Ludwig Eisenbarth in 1975, is another treasure of the church.

In addition to the anniversary celebration, there was another festive occasion this year: The special post office in Christkindl is celebrating its 75th anniversary. This particular connection to Christmas and the contemplative period of the year attracts hundreds of visitors every year who want to experience the atmosphere and faith.

The pilgrimage church remains a central point for the community in Steyr and beyond and will surely captivate many people in the coming years.

Sustainable traditions are cultivated here, and the growing popularity of the pilgrimage church as a peaceful place is also passed on from generation to generation. This year's anniversary is a further proof of how much the faith and spirit of Christkindl are rooted in the region. Further information on the history of the church can also be found on Earthartallegorie.univie.ac.at

In times like this, when peace often appears as a precious good, the pilgrimage church remains a lively testimony to faith and hope of people in Steyr and beyond.