Saint Nicholas parish church, Romanesque Revival parish church in Oberndorf bei Salzburg, Austria.
Saint Nicholas parish church is a Romanesque Revival building with an octagonal shape and arched windows that define its structure. Inside, it holds a wooden relief altarpiece that was crafted by sculptor Hermann Hutter in 1915.
The church is where Silent Night received its first performance on December 24, 1818, with music by composer Franz Gruber and words by Joseph Mohr. This event became a turning point that gave the location lasting historical importance.
The church carries deep meaning as the birthplace of the song Silent Night, an event that shaped the town's character and identity. This musical connection remains a central part of how locals and visitors understand the place.
The church is open for visits during regular hours, so it is best to check opening times before arriving. Guided tours can be arranged for groups interested in learning more about the building and its historical significance.
The entire town of Oberndorf relocated roughly 800 meters upstream after recurring floods from the Salzach River in the 1800s, and this church was reconstructed at the new site. This dramatic move reveals how powerfully nature shaped the fate of the community.
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