Wallfahrtskirche Maria Schnee, Parish church in Lesachtal, Austria
Wallfahrtskirche Maria Schnee is a Gothic parish church in the Lesachtal valley in Austria, sitting at around 1,170 meters (3,840 feet) above sea level. The building has an onion-shaped roof tower and was designed by the architect Bartolomeo Vierthaler.
The church was built in 1520 after a woman named Helena reported a vision telling her to found a place of worship at this spot. From that point on, the site has been used continuously as a pilgrimage destination.
The church takes its name from Our Lady of the Snow, a title connected to a Roman basilica founded after a summer snowfall was seen as a sign from Mary. Pilgrims who walk the path leading to the church still stop at small roadside shrines along the way, following a rhythm of prayer that has not changed much over the centuries.
The church is easiest to reach by private vehicle, as public transport connections in the Lesachtal are limited. Given the elevation, weather can change quickly, so warm and waterproof clothing is a good idea year-round.
Twelve small roadside chapels line the eastern path leading to the church, each marking a stop along a traditional pilgrimage route. This row of chapels can be walked as a journey of its own, separate from visiting the church itself.
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