Initially used as a baptistery, later part of St. Peter’s Abbey, monastery church and finally parish church of the city of Salzburg – the Franciscan church plays an important role in the history of Salzburg. Its origins date back to the 8th century, making it one of the oldest places of worship in the city.

In the middle of the old town, it rises impressively into the sky – once even with a higher tower than that of the cathedral.

The church originally bore the name “Zu Unserer Lieben Frau” (To Our Lady) and was restored in the 2nd half of the 8th century under Abbot Bishop Virgil. It was built on an early Christian place of worship and initially belonged to the Benedictine monastery of St. Peter.

In the course of its history, it has served as a convent church for the Benedictine nuns of St. Peter’s (until 1583) and as the parish church of the city of Salzburg (1189-1628). Numerous conversions and renovations – whether due to city fires or stylistic developments – have shaped its appearance, which today is a fascinating mixture of Romanesque and Gothic.

The high altar was originally designed by Michael Pacher and later reinterpreted by Johann Fischer von Erlach. The church was last extensively renovated in 1983.

The Franciscan church is a two-part building:

• Romanesque nave with ribbed vaulting
• Late Gothic choir with ornate star-ribbed vaulting

One particularly impressive detail: the transition between the two eras is clearly noticeable architecturally – a highlight for architecture enthusiasts.

The original Gothic tower was once higher than the cathedral until Archbishop Max Gandolf von Kuenburg had it shortened in 1670 – out of respect for the main church building. Nevertheless, the tower remains a defining element of the city skyline to this day.

The church has ten bells, three of which are historical examples from the 11th, 12th and 15th centuries. The remaining seven were cast in 1999 and 2001 by the renowned bell foundry Grassmayr from Innsbruck.

Enjoy the 10-part peal of bells during your stay in Salzburg. The church, which belongs to the Franciscan monastery, is located between Franziskanergasse and Sigmund-Haffner-Gasse in the middle of the old town.