Five Day Pilgrimage from Vienna to Mariazell
The next two days to Mariazell were basically a stroll through solitary nature. Without hardly any elevation change, the about thirty miles of walk allowed a lot of resting time, looking and listening.
For hundred of years, the dense forest was the only source of income for the people living in this area. This was commemorated by a little outdoor museum. The museum showed glimpses of the hard life of woodcutters and charcoal makers. A charming chapel for pilgrims was beside the museum. The walls were covered by squared paintings celebrating life and nature.
Via Sacra Chapel
Inside the chapel
Looking into the humble living space of woodcutter and charcoal makers
Another home
Before we passed this museum, we stopped at an inn called Kalte Kuchl (cold kitchen). It is located on a major crossroad leading in three directions. The inn goes back to the 15th century. It is the destination of motorcycles – what a contrast to the otherwise undisturbed nature!
Kalte Kuchl Inn
Only a few people live in this area. Most of the time, the path is unpaved and in harmony with the surroundings.
Typical path
The amount of wayside shrines increased the closer we came to Mariazell.
A baroque wayside shrine with shingled roof
Mary and Child on a column, surrounded by a circle
Like on many pilgrimage paths, pilgrims donate little rocks on certain places
Collection of little rocks donated
Often, we walked beside a creek. It was nice listening to the sound of water.
One of many creeks
Abundance of water
About 100 years ago, a lake was constructed 10 miles before Mariazell, the Hubertussee. The clear, still water reflected the surrounding mountains perfectly. I could not resist the temptation to jump into the ice-cold mountain water – it was so refreshing!
Hubertussee
A charming chapel dedicated to the 15th century Swiss Saint Nicholaus of Flühe overlooking the lake
A typical mountain spring along the way
It was already dark when we arrived at Mariazell. The town is dominated by the 17th century baroque Basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Although I made photos, my friend provided a photo she made in May with the full moon above.
Basilica of Mariazell with full moon
[photo provided by Gabriele Moser (copyright, 2020)]
We spent the next day in Mariazell and went to the grotto to give thanks for a successful pilgrimage.
Hundreds of candles illuminate and warm up the grotto
I also bought the famous gingerbread of Mariazell for presents at home. As a fun activity, we climbed the “ladder to heaven” which leaned against the gothic entrance of the Basilica (we asked for permission to get on the ladder). Next year, we plan to walk the same route in the reverse direction.
Way up to Heaven
Sigrid and I in front of the Basilica
Thank you so much for walking with me on this pilgrimage. It was a real pleasure to share my experience.
Gassho,
Garyo