Felsenkapelle Gschlößtal, Cave chapel in Matrei in Osttirol, Austria.
The Felsenkapelle Gschlößtal sits beneath a massive rock block at 1690 meters elevation, featuring a stone vault and pointed arch windows on its facade. The chapel lacks one complete wall, as it uses the natural rock face itself as part of its structure.
The structure was built in 1688 by Alpine residents, but had to be relocated in 1870 into a natural cave due to avalanche dangers. This relocation preserved the sanctuary from the elements and ensured its survival to this day.
The interior holds a wooden altar with dark marble, an 18th-century painting of Archangel Michael, and an alabaster figure of Mary beneath a crucifix. These religious objects reflect the devotion of people who sought spiritual solace in this remote location.
Visitors reach the chapel via a hiking trail from Gschlößbach bridge with around 200 meters of elevation gain on marked paths. The ascent takes several hours and requires sturdy footwear and good fitness for the mountainous terrain.
The chapel was built directly into an existing rock crevice, and the cave was expanded to create its characteristic stone vault. This process of adapting to the natural landscape makes this place something truly special among Alpine sanctuaries.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
