Basilica of the Nativity of Mary
The Basilica of the Nativity of Mary in Frauenkirchen is a large baroque church with two domed towers and a soaring interior that reaches about 75 feet (23 meters) high. The building measures roughly 174 feet (53 meters) long and 59 feet (18 meters) wide, with eight small side chapels positioned along the main hall.
The original church at this location was destroyed in 1529 during warfare, yet a wooden statue of Mary miraculously survived the flames. Reconstruction began in the late 1600s under Italian architect Francesco Martinelli and was completed in 1702.
The basilica serves as a pilgrimage site where visitors come to pray to Mary and find comfort in their faith. People light candles, sit in quiet reflection, and feel drawn to the statues and painted scenes of saints that fill the interior spaces.
The basilica is open daily from early morning until evening, welcoming visitors to pray in quiet spaces or admire the ornate decorations. Guided tours are available, and a small shop on the grounds sells local wines and religious items on an honesty system where you pay without a cashier present.
A wooden statue of Mary brought personally to the basilica in 1669 by Prince Paul Esterhazy from Forchtenstein still stands on the main altar today. This statue has survived several crises throughout history and draws visitors who believe in its miraculous power.
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