Hundskirche, Paternion, Rock formation with petroglyphs in Paternion, Austria.
Hundskirche is a limestone rock formation in Paternion that stands approximately 13 meters tall and stretches about 21 meters across its base. It features two flat walls with carved representations of dogs, religious symbols, and inscriptions that were cut into the surface.
The rock formation served as a refuge for Protestants during the 17th and 18th centuries when religious persecution forced believers to seek alternative worship locations. The carved markings document the spiritual life and resilience of this community during a time of oppression.
The rock walls display carved dog representations inspired by the Latin word canis, alongside religious symbols such as crosses and a church tower drawing. These carvings reflect the spiritual meaning the place held for people who sought refuge here during difficult times.
The rock formation sits approximately 3 to 4 meters from the L 33 regional road, making it accessible and straightforward to view. Visitors can examine the historical carvings from a convenient distance and explore the area around the formation.
The east wall displays a large dog carved in relief technique, while the west wall bears the year 1599 and various Protestant inscriptions. These two distinct wall sides together tell the story of religious hope and resistance preserved in stone.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
