East Styrian Treasures Sacred art and culture in the ApfelLand Lake Stubenberg and the Nature Park Pöllau Valley Cultural tourism and “Organ Hikes” with culinary delights

With support from the federal government and states, and the European Union East Styrian 2 Treasures East Styrian Treasures 3

Wilhelm Krautwaschl Hermann Schützenhöfer Diocesan Bishop Governor of Styria

Dear Visitors! Styria is blessed with a multitude of cultural treasures. Especially Styrian architecture, which developed over centuries, enables us today to enjoy I am delighted with this publication in which the sacred buildings of the countless architectural jewels all around us. Many of them are famous regions ApfelLand Lake Stubenberg and Nature Park Pöllau Valley are beyond our region and some are true insider tips. Both have shaped the introduced. The hike goes from Pischelsdorf to Pöllauberg. Beautiful pic- Styrian identity and society. In this magazine about sacred art the artistic tures as well as the descriptions of the organs and bells invite you to visit and cultural importance of churches and chapels of the region is high- the churches, indeed, to go on an “organ hike”. Organs from the years lighted. It helps visitors to discover, enjoy and admire these Styrian trea- 1680 to 2003 enable you to experience almost the entire stylistic breadth sures. Church organs and bells are also being introduced. of organ music. You are also invited to go on an “organ hike” – when As Governor of Styria I am proud that our federal state offers such a rich you visit the churches at certain times, the bells remind us to pray and to cultural heritage and I am delighted that this magazine puts it centre commemorate: At 6 or 7 o’clock in the morning, at 12 o’clock noon and stage. I hope all visitors experience unique and thrilling moments while usually at 7 o’clock in the evening the angelus bells chime, and in addi- enjoying the sacred art of Styria. I want to thank the editors for their ded- tion, in the evening the smallest bell is rung to commemorate the dead. ication. A Styrian “Glück auf!” – “Good luck!” On Fridays at 3 pm the largest bell chimes to remember Christ’s hour of death. May this publication delight visitors and residents alike! East Styrian 4 Treasures Dear Cultural Tourists!

The two adjoining tourism associations ApfelLand Lake Stubenberg and Nature Park Pöllau Valley have developed this proj- ect in cooperation with the LEADER-Region “Zeitkultur Oststeirisches Kernland”. It is designed to highlight the sacred cul- tural treasures of both regions and introduces “organ hiking”. More than a dozen churches as well as their organs and bells are being portrayed. Visitors are furthermore invited to acoustically experience the organs and bells. The churches stem from the periods of Gothic, Baroque and Historicism. They were elaborately renovated and are part of the sacred and artistic life in East- ern Styria. Together with the gastronomic offerings around the churches, the traditional “Kirchenwirte” (church innkeepers), they have always been places where locals, pilgrims and hikers met. This magazine, assorted brochures as well as an audio guide will help you to find out many interesting things about Styrian cultural treasures. We look forward to our many guests that visit our regions and that enjoy hiking, sacred art and culinary delicacies.

Josef Hirt and Christine Schwetz, Tourism Managing Directors

The “Lokale Aktionsgruppe (LAG) Zeitkultur Oststeirische Kernland” (Local Campaign Group Time and Culture East Styrian Heartland) approved EU funds for the LEADER-Project Cultural Tourism. The two tourism associations submitted an innova- tive concept which emphasizes the quality of life and the characteristic cultural and artistic treasures. Special thanks are owed to the project managers for the invariably good collaboration. We love to support innovative ideas with our longstanding experience in regional development and our financial expertise in the area of project management.

For the LAG-Team: Dr. Wolfgang Berger, Managing Director East Styrian Treasures 5

CONTENT

Overview Art History...... 6 Organs...... 8 Bells...... 10 Sacred Art and Cultural Tourism ApfelLand Lake Stubenberg...... 12 Sacred Art and Cultural Tourism Nature Park Pöllau Valley...... 13 Parish Church Anger...... 14 Fourteen Holy Helpers Church Anger...... 18 St. Ulrich’s Church Külml...... 22 Chapel Mariabrunn Kulm...... 24 Parish Church Puch bei Weiz...... 26 Parish Church Stubenberg am See...... 30 Parish Church St. Johann bei Herberstein...... 34 Pilgrimage Church Maria Fieberbründl...... 40 Parish Church Pischelsdorf...... 44 Cemetery Church Pischelsdorf...... 47 Succursal Church Blaindorf...... 48 Succursal Church St. Stefan in Hofkirchen...... 52 Parish Church Pöllau bei Hartberg...... 56 Parish and Pilgrimage Church Pöllauberg...... 64 Anna Chapel Pöllauberg...... 70 Church of the Sacred Heart...... 72 Stone Wayside Shrines and “European Trail of Reflection”...... 74 Chapel of Good Fortune Masenberg...... 75 Church St. Anna atop Masenberg...... 76 Picture Index...... 77

Cartography: Advertising Agency geografik, Graz / 19-32 / 11 19, Topographic map outline: ©BEV KM500R, 11 11 19 East Styrian 6 Treasures Overview Art History

The region ApfelLand Lake Stubenberg – Nature Park Pöllau Valley has a rich and diverse sacred heritage, which offers works from almost all epochs.

In St. Johann bei Herberstein numerous Roman relief stones, portraits and in- scriptions have survived including the well known frieze depicting the centaur fight. Parts of the Romanesque ashlar masonry give a hint as to where the oldest medieval church stood. Some of the masonry can be viewed in the cloister of the adjoining women’s shelter.

A great example of the Gothic period is the pilgrimage church Pöllauberg from the late 14th century, which is of exceptional quality and size. The smaller pil- grimage churches from the 16th century in Hofkirchen (1501) and Blaindorf (1508) as well as the Holy Helpers church in Anger (1517) are also important sacral buildings of the region.

The square medieval tower of the parish church Anger with its important fres- coes from the late 14th century is another sacral highlight.

The oldest Early Baroque church of North-Eastern Styria was built from 1652 onwards in St. Johann bei Herberstein. It was a strictly monastic building for the Augustinian monastery there. It was later converted to the Baroque style in stages. East Styrian Treasures 7

The largest church building of the region, albeit only a third of the size of the Contrary to St. Johann, the parish church in Stubenberg was constructed (1758- actual St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, was built from 1701 onwards in Pöllau. The 1760) as a light-flooded sacred space. In the 19th century only small chapels were former abbey church of the Augustinian monastery is one of the most important built including the pilgrimage church Maria Fieberbründl (1879), to which a de- sacral buildings of the time in Styria. The expansion of the abbey church in Vorau tached Neo-Roman prayer hall was added in 1894, and only in 1954 were they coincided time-wise with the construction work in Pöllau, and there was certain- converted to one unified church building. ly a bit of rivalry going on between the two monasteries. While Vorau managed to superbly hide flaws in the architecture with sumptuous furnishings, Pöllau Although it was planned to build a pilgrimage church in honour of saint consciously utilised spatial impact and the art of painting. Pöllau also put an Nepomuk in Pischelsdorf where the present-day cemetery is located, construc- impressive dome on top of their new church building but couldn’t finish the west tion work had to be stopped after the sanctuary was finished because of a short- facade and the second bell tower. age of money. Nonetheless, Pischelsdorf should have its large church. Between 1898 and 1902 the present-day church with its distinctive tower was erected. This With the Baroque bell tower from 1678 and the music gallery from 1691 the pil- tower in return set the impulse for the extensions of the towers in Stubenberg in grimage church atop Pöllauberg was cautiously converted to the Baroque style. 1907 and later likewise in Kaindorf. The Anna chapel was built next to it around 1730. The fine arts are of course represented in a unique way in the sacred buildings The oldest church (1466) of Puch bei Weiz had acquired its current form by 1678. of the region. The pilgrimage church in Blaindorf was converted to Baroque in 1693. The Holy Helpers church in Anger was extended in 1633, a mighty bell tower was added The Schokotnigs, a family of sculptors, were responsible from 1710 onwards for in 1684 and in 1719 it acquired its current form. the large altar constructions in Pöllauberg, St. Johann bei Herberstein and Anger. The painter Matthias von Görz from Pöllau was able to complete his life’s work The parish church in Anger, built between 1708 and 1711 by an East Styrian in Pöllau. By 1723 he had decorated the entire monastery church with frescoes. master builder, intentionally borrowed from the large pilaster churches with His works can also be found in Pöllauberg and St. Johann bei Herberstein. The their side chapels and nave arcades. This illustrates the ambitions they had. The painter Johann Cyriak Hackhofer from Vorau created altar pieces for Pöllau and church is a unique testament to their desire to represent. In addition to the parish Stubenbergsee. He was also solely responsible for the paintings (completed by church are the smaller churches and chapels in Külml, atop Kulm and at the Holy 1731) in the vestry and the oratory in St. Johann by Herberstein. Sepulchre in St. Johann. East Styrian 8 Treasures Organs

The organs of the region ApfelLand – Pöllau Valley form a multifaceted synergy and make it possible to authentically experience organ music from all epochs.

The oldest instrument (1680), a small positive with four stops, can be found in the St. Ulrich’s church in Külml.

One of the most important “monuments to sound” from the late 17th century is without a doubt the anonymous organ (circa 1684) in the parish and pilgrimage church Pöllauberg. With 18 stops on two manuals and the pedal it is considered a grand organ taking into account the time of creation. Its history is not entire- ly traceable. The second manual (positive) seems to have only been installed around 1730, according to the pipes, a work by Andreas Schwarz from Graz. It is not irrefutably confirmed whether or not Johannes Lilling is responsible for the older parts of the organ.

In the Anna chapel is a small processional organ with four stops from around 1730, which was made by Johann Georg Mitterreither. At that time all instru- ments were built in Graz. Mitterreither is also the creator of the largest Baroque organ in the region, which can be found in the former abbey church in Pöllau. It was built in 1739 and has 24 stops on two manuals and the pedal. It is a great example of the Grazer organ making style in the early 18th century, and it is also considered to be one of the most important “monuments to sound” of that time in Austria. With its soft, yet full sound, it can easily fill the more than 62 meters long church with heavenly music. East Styrian Treasures 9

A small processional organ can also be found in the former abbey building in In 1913 the newly built parish church in Pischelsdorf also received its first large Pöllau, which was made in 1741. According to the inscription, it is a work by the organ. It was made by Konrad Hopferwieser and had 31 stops but was altered in organ makers Cyriak Werner and Veit Wurzer. 1941, 1954 and 1992 and has currently 39 stops over three manuals and the pedal. A new era of organ culture started in the parish church in Anger in 1983 with the Cyriak Werner or his successor Anton Römer also created the organ that was newly finished organ. Georg Jann created an instrument that would have been transferred in 1980 from the Altersheimkirche in Graz to the succursal church in to J.S. Bach’s liking. He inserted an organ with 22 stops into the Baroque casing Blaindorf. The instrument from 1750 has nine stops. from circa 1740 and thereby revived the work of organ maker Caspar Mitterrei- ther. In the year 1751 a small organ with five stops was installed in the cemetery church in Pischelsdorf. According to new findings, it is the former organ of the parish This was followed in the year 1994 by the modern Rieger-Organ in the pilgrim- church in Kaindorf, which was altered by the local organ maker Jakob Erber. The age church Maria Fieberbründl. With only 18 stops distributed over the great instrument was created in 1690 by Johannes Lilling. organ, the swell organ and the pedal, it offers a broad spectrum for organ music from different epochs. The organ (1803) with nine stops from the succursal church St. Stefan in Hofkirch- en, which was made by Ludwig Gress from Graz, represents the ending era of In 1998 Thomas Jann inserted a new mechanism with 10 stops into the organ cas- the art of making Baroque organs. ing from the Holy Helpers church in Anger. Jann matched his work to the period of when it was built by Andreas Schwarz, whose organ stood in the church from The organ of the parish church Stubenberg has an interesting history. It was orig- 1710 to 1740. inally built for the parish church of Gaspoltshofen in Upper Austria in 1834 by the organ maker Stefan Jus from Linz. In 1992 it was put into storage. In 2003 it The „youngest“ instrument of the region is a copy of the Italian style of Gaetano could be acquired for Stubenberg, and it fits in perfectly with the Late Baroque Callido. It was inserted into a Mauracher casing from 1906 in the parish church interior of the church. 14 stops distributed over the great organ, the pedal and the Puch bei Weiz and created by the North Italien manufactory Francesco Zanin. balustrade organ were revitalized by the organ maker Francesco Zanin in 2004. From the rich culture of organ music in St. Johann bei Herberstein only the empty casing of the choir organ from 1730 remains. Today’s organ on the choir was built in 1913 by Albert Mauracher in Salzburg and is a good example for an instrument of the Romantic period. East Styrian 10 Treasures Bells

After the collection of bells by the government in 1917, the number of historic bells in the region ApfelLand – Pöllau Valley was greatly diminished. Thanks to the appreciation for valuable „monuments to sound“, even during those hard times, some could be saved.

The oldest bell of the region hangs in the small tower of the castle Herberstein and was cast in 1448. Furthermore, the original bell yoke from 1703 has survived to this day.

Another historic 16th century bell (1549) from Marx Wenig still chimes in the tower of the parish church in Pöllau.

The bell from Thomas Auer is considerably smaller, which he cast for the parish church in St. Johann bei Herberstein in 1599.

Apart from the small bell from 1651 in the tower of the Anna chapel atop Pöllau- berg, the three bells from the bell foundry Adam Rostauscher in Graz deserve a special mention. The biggest one can be found in Pöllau (1665), another one in Pöllauberg (1678) and the third one in the Holy Helpers church in Anger (1687). The largest historic bell of the region adorns the tower of the parish church in Anger. It was cast in 1713 by Florentin Streckfuß in Graz. Considerably smaller is the bell from Sales Feltl from Graz, which he cast in 1787 for the parish church in Pischelsdorf.

Therewith ends the collection of historic bells in the region. East Styrian Treasures 11

Overview of the largest bells in the region:

After the First World War it was common, to avoid the taking of bells, to cast Parish Church Anger Parish Church Pöllau bells out of steel. One of the largest steel bells in the country was made by the 1. ds’ – 1200 kg – 1713 1. h° – 2722 kg, Dm. 180 cm – 1922 bell foundry Böhler in Kapfenberg for the parish church in Pöllau in 1922. Böhler 2. fs’ – 699 kg – 1922 2. ds’ – 1120 kg, Dm. – 128 cm – 1665 cast another bell for Pöllau in 1923. Three bells from Böhler went to the parish 3. b’ – 383 kg, 1922 3. fs’ – 808 kg, Dm. 118 cm – 1923 church in Anger and also to the parish church in St. Johann bei Herberstein. Two 4. ds’’ – 156 kg – 1922 4. a’ – 400 kg, Dm. 87 cm – 1549 more followed for Pischelsdorf in 1923. 5. c’’’ – 37 kg – 1936 5. f’’ – 100 kg, Dm. 56 cm – 1952

Another steel bell for Pischelsdorf was cast in 1956 by the “Bochumer Verein” Parish Church Pischelsdorf Parish and Pilgrimage Church (Bochumer Club). 1. d’ – 1650 kg, Dm. 156 cm – 1923 Pöllauberg 2. e’ – 940 kg, Dm. 134 cm – 1956 1. d’ – 1591 kg, Dm. 138 cm – 1958 The first bronze bells of the region in modern times were made by thebell 3. g’ – 600 kg, Dm. 102 cm – 1787 2. fs’ – 834 kg, Dm. 111 cm – 1950 foundry Ernest Szabo in Graz. One bell was delivered to Anger in 1936, three 4. a’ – 400 kg, Dm. 95 cm – 1923 3. a’ – 560 kg, Dm. 95 cm – 1678 bells to Blaindorf in 1946, the bells for Maria Fieberbründl in 1947 and in 1950 4. h’ – 375 kg, Dm. 83 cm – 1950 for Hofkirchen. The bell foundry St. Florian near Linz was responsible for the Parish Church Stubenberg bells of Pöllauberg, delivered in 1950 and 1958, as well as for the bell of Puch bei 1. e’ – 1084 kg, Dm. 101 cm – 1971 Parish Church Weiz (1955). 2. fs’ – 740 kg, Dm. 108 cm – 1949 St. Johann bei Herberstein 3. a’ – 428 kg, Dm. 90 cm – 1949 1. b’ – Dm. 94 cm – 1922 After 1949 the bell foundry Grassmayr from Innsbruck was often deployed. 4. cs’ – 207 kg, Dm. 71 cm – 1949 2. d’’ – Dm. 73 cm – 1922 Stubenberg received bells in 1949 and 1971 (four bells), the Holy Sepulchre in St. 3. f’’ – Dm. 61 cm – 1922 Johann in 1962, Puch bei Weiz in 1989 (three bells) and the Holy Helpers church Parish Church Puch bei Weiz 4. g’’ – Dm. 47 cm – 1599 in Anger in 2007 (one bell). 1. b’ – 358 kg, Dm. 86 cm – 1989 2. cs’’ – 216 kg, Dm. 71 cm – 1989 3. f’’ – Dm. 57 cm – 1955 4. gs’’ – 62 kg, Dm. 47 cm – 1989

Legend: Pitch Level, Weight, Diameter, Year of Origin East Styrian 12 Treasures Sacred Art and Cultural Tourism in the region ApfelLand Lake Stubenberg

A lot of people come to the region, which is embedded between Weiz and Hart- The sacred buildings form a touristic sightseeing and adventure route, which berg, to visit the fortresses and castles. As part of the “Castle Road” it became goes along the Styrian “Apple Road” in Anger, Külml, Kulm and Puch, and then well-known and attracts many visitors now. Still largely unknown are the trea- further along the “Roman Wine Road” in Pischelsdorf, Stubenberg, St. Johann bei sures of sacred art and culture in the country. The churches with their organs and Herberstein, Maria Fieberbründl and Blaindorf, and finally over Hofkirchen to bells were extensively renovated and are now ready to be admired. the Nature Park Pöllau Valley.

The twelve churches between Anger and Hofkirchen diverge greatly in their Visitors to the region do not only find art and culture but also a rich culinary style and their interior design. The sacral buildings are distinctive landmarks tradition. After all, there is a “Kirchenwirt” (church innkeeper) in every village. in the area, from a simple Gothic church in St. Stefan, which stands in the Safen They are not always called that, but are always close to the church, because the Valley just like it did 700 years ago, to a Baroque pilaster church, which was a church goers enjoy a meal there after mass. In Austria it is a custom to go for a representative house of worship for the people of Anger. The pilgrimage church meal after christenings and funerals for which the “Kirchenwirt” is usually cho- Maria Fieberbründl and the large St. Peter and Paul church in Pischelsdorf stem sen as well. from the beginning of the 20th century. The St. Peter and Paul church has the highest tower with 77 meters and the only one that is accessible in Eastern Styria. Admire the sacred art of the region, listen to the bells and organs and enjoy the Ascending the 265 steps one passes the clockwork and the bells until reaching the culinary specialities from our “Kirchenwirte”. lantern tower. From up there one can enjoy a wonderful panoramic view over the hills, orchards and vineyards. East Styrian Treasures 13

in the region Nature Park Pöllau Valley

In the middle of the green heart of Austria, Eastern Styria, lies the unmistakeable, The organs of the regions ApfelLand Lake Stubenberg and Nature Park Pöllau soft and hilly landscape of the Pöllau Valley. Valley take you on a colourful journey through organ music of different eras. The oldest instrument can be found in the succursal church St. Ulrich in Külml. It is The Nature Park Pöllau Valley, a Nature Park since 1983, covers an area of a small positive with four stops from the year 1680. The organ from 1684 in the 124 km2. It is a wonderful mosaic of different landscapes on a sea level between parish and pilgrimage church Pöllauberg is considered one of the most import- 345 and 1,280 meters. Characteristic for the Nature Park are the impressive rows ant “monuments to sound” in Austria. The largest Baroque organ (1739) of the of fruit trees, groves, woods and fields. region is the one in the abbey church in Pöllau with 24 stops on two manuals and the pedal. It represents the Grazer organ making style in the early 18th century Because of our flagship product, the Hirschbirne, an old Styrian variety of pear, in a unique way. the Nature Park Pöllau Valley is known since 2006 as GenussRegion Pöllau- er Hirschbirne (a region for enjoyment and delights) and since 2015 the pear is On a culinary round trip through the GenussRegion Pöllauer Hirschbirne one protected by the EU designation of origin act. The name derives from the word can truly taste regional delicacies. You can choose from a wide variety of deli- “Herbst” (“Hiascht”) which means autumn, because the pear is harvested mid-Oc- cious food certified by the Culinary Association of Styria. Sample produce from tober. Many delicacies are made from the autumn pear like schnapps, juice, vin- regional self-marketers, relish selected menus for real gourmands or visit a local egar, cider, sparkling wine, liqueur, ham, pâté, jelly, tried pears and much more. tavern (“Buschenschänken”). We are looking forward to your visit! The Nature Park Pöllau Valley skilfully unites historic treasures, beauty and di- versity of nature as well as culinary delights.

The historic market with the “Styrian St. Peter’s Basilica” and the castle invites visitors to linger. The historic centre of the market isn’t the only thing culture lov- ers get to enjoy. The imposing pilgrimage church atop Pöllauberg is worth a visit. Enjoy the panoramic view and the unique landscape of the Nature Park from up there. Anger East Styrian Treasures 15 Parish Church Anger

The parish church St. Andrew (St. Andreas) in Anger was built from 1708 to 1711 The medieval part of the church is a unique example of the religious imagery of by the master builder Lorenz Stattaler from St. Ruprecht an der Raab. It is a four- the late Middle Ages. On the east side (the former high altar) you can find the bay pilaster church with side chapels, galleries above and finished off with a Last Judgment fresco, on the south side you can find the crucifixion of Christ as mighty choir apse. The bell tower is of medieval origin and is the oldest part well as depictions of the apostles, on the west side you can find the coronation of the church. It belonged to a Romanesque church, which was erected around of Mary, underneath it the Annunciation and in the arcades the crucifixion of 1161 and which was decorated with frescoes in the 14th century. In 1764 a grand St. Andrew and the fall of the converted St. Paul, and on the north side you can cupola was added to the tower. find the Heavenly Jerusalem with the “Living Cross” and tabernacle. At the entrance to this part is a painted epitaph for the “market judge” and the master There are five bells inside the tower including the oldest and largest one from shoemaker Lorenz Gigler, whose son was a city pastor in Graz and who hired 1713 which was cast by Florentin Streckfuß in Graz. It is supported by three steel the painter Cyperus Pämbstl for this work. It shows, underneath the distinc- bells from 1922, cast by Böhler in Kapfenberg, and one bronze bell from 1936, tive statue of a risen Christ, surrounded by angles and surprised figures at the a work by the bell foundry Szabo in Graz. empty grave, the entire family of the deceased including three women and 24 children.

The high altar of the parish church was built in 1738. The large altarpiece with the patron saint Andreas followed in 1770. It is a work by Johann Adam Mölck.

The pulpit, a work by Joseph Schokotnig from 1740, depicts Moses and Aaron from the Old Testament before the Holy Trinity. This corresponds with the Statue of St. Johann Nepomuk on the opposite side.

Apart from the large depictions of the apostles in the galleries, the organ case deserves a special mention. It was created in 1740 by the organ maker Caspar Mitterreither from Graz. The current organ is a work by Georg Jann from the year 1983. East Styrian 16 Treasures ANGER East Styrian Treasures 17

Der Thaller

The family Thaller warmly welcomes guests since over 140 years. The for- mer imperial-royal posting house on the idyllic main square has always been a sought out destination for hungry and thirsty travellers to take some refreshments. Nowadays, the family run business is in its 6th gen- eration. The business was continually expanded and is now a gourmet restaurant (3 chef’s hats) and a four star hotel. The traditional Beuschel (a ragout made from lung and other giblets), which has been enjoyed by church goers for decades, is always worth a culinary trip on a Sunday.

Thaller KG | Family Thaller Hauptplatz 3 | 8184 Anger| Tel. +43 3175 2206 [email protected] | www.posthotel-thaller.at 14-Nothelfer East Styrian Treasures 19 Fourteen Holy Helpers Church

The succursal and pilgrimage church Fourteen Holy Helpers in Anger is the most important pilgrimage church in the upper Feistritz Valley. The architectural histo- ry of the church interior represents the highlights of the pilgrimage to this house of worship.

Gothic portals mark the oldest part of the church. It dates from around 1517 similar to Hofkirchen and Blaindorf. The choice of patrocinium gives an indication of the sorrows and worries of the population back then. The fourteen helpers for people in need offer the best possible divine support in any given situation. In 1633 the nave was built anew, at least partially, on the old fundaments. The distinctive bell tower followed in 1683 according to plans by Jakob Schmerlaib. The construction of the altar area in the shape of a trefoil between 1714 and 1719, headed by the master builder Remigius Horner, completed the architectural layout of the church.

There are two bells in the tower; the large one was cast in 1687 by Adam Rostaus- cher in Graz and the smaller one in 2007 by Grassmayr in Innsbruck.

The first side altars, preserved to this day, were erected around 1716/17, the votive paintings found their way into the church in large numbers around 1740, and the pulpit was created by Mathias Leitner in 1751. The last piece that was added to the church interior was the high altar from 1783, and just in time, as the Josephinist state reform more or less put an end to the practice of pilgrimages.

The monumental painting on the high altar depicts St. Giles and St. Blaise as the leaders of the large group of “auxiliary saints”. It is crowned by a painting of Mary as the Queen of Heaven and flanked by the statues of Leonard, Judas Thaddeus, John the Evangelist and Martin as well as Nicholas and Francis Xavier on the wall brackets. East Styrian 20 Treasures ANGER - 14 Nothelfer East Styrian Treasures 21

Opposite the left side altar with the crucifixion group stands the altar of Joseph. Hotel Angerer-Hof The side altars of the nave are dedicated to St. Florian and St. Patritz, the stat- ues depict John and Paul (left) as well as Sebastian and Roch. The small pictures crowning the altars show the “peasant” saints Notburga and Isidor. The extensive catalogue of saints of this church by far surpasses the fourteen Holy Helpers, which are a large group of saints unto themselves.

The Early Baroque organ on the gallery was built in 1710 by Andreas Schwarz and stood in the parish church Anger until 1740. The current organ was inserted into the glorious organ case in 1998 by Thomas Jann.

Today’s “Angerer-Hof” was built in 1912 and functioned as a “train sta- tion restaurant”. It was opened one year after the Feistritz Valley Rail- way was finished. The business has changed many times over the years and is now a wellness hotel where guests get pampered. The light rail- way is still operating and together with the “wagon hotel” in a historic carriage they are upholding the “train tradition”. Pilgrims travelled on the train to visit the pilgrimage church in Anger and, of course, stopped for a bite to eat. The Angerer-Hof is a family-run business, where tradi- tion is valued and where guest can expect a heartfelt welcome.

Gertrude & Ronald Derler Bahnhofstraße 16 | 8184 Anger | Tel. +43 3175 2279 [email protected] | www.angerer-hof.at East Styrian 22 Treasures St. Ulrich’s Church Külml

Contrary to the Baroque castle Külml, the former summer residence of the Augustinian canons from Pöllau, the church was erected on the top of the “small Kulm” (Külml, Kümerl), possibly on the site of a medieval fortification of which are no remnants left. Although the church supposedly stems from Gothic times, the contemporary building is characterized by the alterations from around 1715. The three-bay nave with the Late Baroque “Platzl vault”, similar to the vaults in the parish church Stubenberg, might have only obtained its current look in 1760. In the small ridge turret hangs the “Ulrich bell” from the year 1959.

Displayed behind the positive organ is the monumental painting of the battle of Lechfeld (955) near Augsburg where St. Ulrich played a vital part by praying for victory. This painting is the largest work of the native artist Peter Stübinger.

Today’s church interior is a collection of pieces that were originally created for other churches, as the partially preserved Early Baroque decorations show.

In the middle of the high altar stands the statue of St. Ulrich, which is crowned by the Archangel Michael and flanked by Sebastian and Roch. On the left side altar is a picture of St. Therese before Mary with a baby Jesus, flanked by the statues of Isidore and Florian. On the right side altar is a picture of Mary and a baby Je- sus, surrounded by Francis Xavier and Joachim. The organ from circa 1680 stems Külml from the Holy Helpers church in Anger. East Styrian Treasures 23

Gasthaus Stixpeter

The oldest preserved organ (1680) in the Feistritz Valley was restored in 2019.

The traditional restaurant Stixpeter is in existence for more than 180 years. It is located right underneath the Külml and was always the last stop for pilgrims before the final ascent to the top. Until the 50s the “Ul- rich’s feast” was celebrated there. The restaurant and the appertaining organic fruit farm are run in the 6th generation by the family Kulmer. Peter Kulmer indulges his guests with Styrian treats and new culinary variations. He also enjoys cooking for guests coming by on the Feistritz Valley cycling route.

Peter Kulmer Unterfeistritz 17 | 8183 Floing | Tel. +43 3177 2259 [email protected] | www.stixpeter.at East Styrian 24 Treasures

Kulm bei Weiz East Styrian Treasures 25 Chapel Mariabrunn

The history of the chapel on mount Kulm starts in the first years of the 18th century when hermits started settling in the region and keeping local authorities busy.

The legendary votive painting “Christ in the winepress” is older though and is markedly reminiscent of the Passion of Christ, only here, Christ is wedged be- tween two threaded rods. Underneath, sinners in the purgatory are begging for redemption. The roots for this depiction are legends of host desecrations while pressing grapes and accounts of miraculous healings.

The construction of the Baroque chapel, according to the inscription, was fin- ished in 1746. The original altar piece “Our Lady of Sorrows” can currently be found on the back of the altar. The altar itself is put together from parts that stem from a side altar of the parish church Puch bei Weiz from the year 1689. The eponymous wellspring (Maria Well) at the foot of the chapel has run dry a long time ago. The Calvary, created around 1750, leads along the Stations of the Cross up to the plateau on the summit of mount Kulm (976m above sea level) where an imposing panorama awaits. Puch bei Weiz East Styrian Treasures 27 Parish Church Puch

The oldest part of this church, the basement of the tower from 1466, forms the base for the Early Baroque church building, which was completed in 1668. In 1906 the entrance area and the facade were altered. The four-part peal consists of two bronze bells from 1989, made by Grassmayr in Innsbruck, as well as a bell that was cast in 1995 in St. Florian near Linz.

The centrepiece of the modest interior is the high altar from 1768, which was created by the sculptor Jakob Payer from Graz. The altarpiece shows the patron saint Oswald, who guards a flock of sheep, and in the background you can make out the east Styrian landscape with mount Kulm. Above the altarpiece the Holy Trinity group hovers. The altarpiece is flanked by the statues of St. Sebastian and St. Donatus (left) as well as St. Florian and St. Achatius. The pulpit is a little bit older. On the pulpit ceiling the Archangel Michael is depicted as well as figures representing the four at that time known continents - Europe, Africa, Asia and America. The Marian altar on the side was created in 1910 but the figurines stem from Baroque times and the baptismal font from the inception of the parish in 1662. The organ case (1906) houses a new instrument since 2003, a copy of an Italian organ imitating the style of Gaetano Callido and built in the manufactory Francesco Zanin.

In the small alcoves on the outside of the church are paintings of the four Evan- gelists which August Raidl created in 1980. Here you can also view a provincial Roman portrait stone as well as the “Memorial of Encounters”, made by Albert Schmuck in 2010. East Styrian 28 Treasures East Styrian Treasures 29

Kirchenwirt Hofer

The building of the Kirchenwirt in Puch counts to the oldest houses of the municipality and has always been a destination for pilgrims and church goers. During the post-war years it has been extended and a hotel was es- tablished. In the rustic rooms locals and tourists still meet to enjoy “apple treats” like Mostbraten (cider roast), apple strudel, Erdäpfelwurst (potato sausage) and many more.

Johann and Anita Hofer Puch b. Weiz 2 | 8182 Puch b. Weiz | Tel. +43 3177 2247 [email protected] | www.kirchenwirt-puch.at Stubenberg am See East Styrian Treasures 31 Parish Church Stubenberg

The parish church St. Nicholas in Stubenberg was built anew between 1758 and 1760 With 16 figurines, congregated underneath the crucifix, Georg der Breite (George in place of a small medieval church. The building is the work of the master builder the broad) of Herberstein has immortalized himself and his family on the great Joseph Hueber from Graz who also built the basilica Weizberg. On the inside as Herberstein epitaph. The tomb with the most figurines in Styria was completed well as on the outside many tombstones of the local nobility from the surrounding by Anton Verda in 1612 but was rearranged in 1865 to its current form. castles have survived. On the south side the “red marble stone” can be viewed, which was created by Hans Eybenstock from Salzburg for Hanns Drachsler, the The Baroque bell tower of the church received a new and higher spire in 1907, caretaker of the castle Neuhaus in Stubenberg who passed away in 1454. following the example of Pischelsdorf. The spire as well as the tomb of the counts Tacoli from 1911, on the east side of the church, were planned by Johann Pascher. The five bronze bells from the bell foundry Grassmayr in Innsbruck amount to a mighty peal. The largest bell was only hoisted up in 1971. The other ones are from 1949.

Above the main entrance is a modern mosaic depicting the patron saint of the church by Rudolf Huszar.

The light three-bay interior of the church is an excellent example of a Late Ba- roque East Styrian country church and a marked antithesis to the Early Baroque abbey church in St. Johann bei Herberstein. The pulpit ceiling, some statues on the altars and especially the painting of the Assumption of Mary by Cyriak Hack- hofer from the year 1724 were passed on from the old church in 1760.

The side altars and the pulpit were only crafted in 1842, but the altarpiece St. Sebastian (until 1786 an own fraternity) and St. Patritz (patron of animals) are older than that. The people’s altar was erected in 1996 according to the design of Werner Schimpel. The Neo-Baroque high altar was created by Johann Rath from Pöllau in 1861. However, the altarpiece (St. Nicholas) and the tabernacle stem from the time of construction. The organ was made by Stefan Just in Linz in 1834. Francesco Zanin restored it in 2004 and installed it here in Stubenberg. East Styrian 32 Treasures Stubenberg am See East Styrian Treasures 33

You can find the modern war memorial, which also has parts of an older one Kirchenwirt from 1938, in the churchyard as well as the statue of St. Bartholomew, which was created by Peter Knoll in 2015. At the exit of the school stands the plague cross with paintings in its alcoves by Adolf Osterider.

In 1396 the tavern is documented as an inn next to the church for the first time. To this day the landlord lives the tradition of a simple inn. 22 comfortable guestrooms are waiting for pilgrims and people looking for relaxation. All year round you will be treated to seasonal and regional specialities.

Steinmann & Windhaber OG Stubenberg 7 | 8223 Stubenberg am See | Tel. +43 3176 8666 [email protected] | www.kirchenwirt-stubenberg.at East Styrian 34 Treasures

St. Johann bei Herberstein East Styrian Treasures 35 Parish Church St. Johann

In a place where plenty of provincial Roman artefacts were found, where the river Feistritz leaves behind the east Styrian hills, the castle of the east Styri- an Feistritzer was built in the 11th century. After they left, a large Romanesque church was built in 1150, which was mentioned for the first time in charters in 1170. From this building some of the ashlar masonry with inserted historic Ro- man stones has survived. The parish and its extensive district between Ilz and Feistritz, that had to tithe, became part of the archdiocese Salzburg in 1245 and in 1260 of the German knight’s order. Since 1384 the church is the burial place of the family Herberstein, who later, in 1652, acquired it and who founded an Augustinian Monastery of the Discalced Friars, which was dissolved in 1820. The monastery building houses a women’s refuge since 1982, an educational and recreational institution of the Styrian Catholic Church.

The “Boulle tabernacle” is an There are four bells inside the tower, three steel bells from the bell foundry Böhler especially precious part of the from 1923 and one bronze bell from 1599, cast by Thomas Auer in Graz. Baroque décor.

The new Early Baroque church, built in 1655 on top of the medieval walls, is the oldest Baroque church in North-Eastern Styria at the same time. According to plans by Anton Solar, the erector of the Landeszeughaus (Styrian historic ar- moury), an austere monastery building with a strong architectural focus on the sanctuary was created. The altarpiece shows John baptizing Jesus, albeit in the Feistritz Valley with the castle Herberstein in the background. On the left side John and Jesus appear again with their mothers in a playful childhood scene. Mary is clothed in a traditional, genteel and courtly dress which is the oldest doc- ument of the history of clothing in this region. The imposing high altar from 1735 is a work by Marx Schokotnig but the artistic pinnacle of the church is the “Boulle tabernacle” from 1714, created by the court artist Johann Heinrich Purkart from Zurich and donated by the Lords of Herberstein. East Styrian 36 Treasures East Styrian Treasures 37

Apart from the side altars, the altars of the side chapels deserve a special men- tion. The Rosary Altar is adorned with a large work by the painter Matthias von Görz from 1726, the Altar of the Holy Cross with an equally impressive work by an unknown artist. The statues were created by Joseph Schokotnig, whereby the figure of the suffering Sebastian with its skilful physiognomy can be seen as a chief work of the time around 1730. Since 1660 the relics of the Early Christian martyrs Lucius and Faustus lie here in an opulent glass shrine.

The pulpit stems from the 18th century and was designed after the pulpit in the Augustinian church Wien-Mariabrunn. Another special feature is the two-storey choir above the main entrance. The middle section with the empty case of the organ from 1730 houses the oratory of the former monastery, which is decorat- ed with frescoes from Johann Cyriak Hackhofer and choir stalls from the local cabinetmaker friar Paulus. The upper part, which is open, houses the Romantic organ inside the Neo-Baroque casing from the year 1913. The artists responsible for the oratory also helped to create the vestry (1731). The oratory and the vestry can only be viewed during guided tours. The Loreto chapel on the other hand, which was added on the south side and where the statue of grace from 1655 stands, is open for visitors. Here you can also find an uncovered wall on the left from the Romanesque church where the edge of the windows can still be made out. The quarry stone masonry, which was inserted in between the ashlar rocks, shows where the Roman relief stones used to be, for they can now be found in the cloister of the women’s refuge. The crypt beneath the high altar, formerly the burial site for the monks, is now the tomb of the family Herberstein (since 1928) and also closed to the public. The walls around the churchyard are a reminder of the bastion of the medieval castle. East Styrian 38 Treasures East Styrian Treasures 39

Calvary and “Holy Tomb” Landgasthof Riegerbauer

The “Holy Tomb” is an endowment from Johann Maximilian von Herberstein. The oldest part is the “Christ Sepulchral Chapel” (1660). Soon after, wayside shrines with scenes from the Passion of Christ were erected between the parish church St. Johann and the “Holy Tomb”. In front of the chapel a crucifixion group (Christ on the cross, Mary, John and Mary Magdalene) out of sandstone was added. Eventually two more chapels were built in 1753, the “Mass chapel” with the pieta and the “Offering chapel” with the statue “Christ on the scourge pillar”, which is a replication of the statue of grace in the Bavarian church in Wies. The current décor of the chapels consists of Baroque items from the former Augustin- ian monastery in St. Johann.

The “Riegerbauer” is a truly traditional restaurant in St. Johann bei Her- berstein. Since 1652 it exists close to the church and is tightly intertwined with church festivals. Whether christenings, marriages, confirmations or after the Sunday church service, at the “Riegerbauer” people celebrate and it has always been that way. Felix Allmer junior is a breath of fresh air inside these old walls. With his creative ideas he transforms traditional dishes into modern delicacies. Beside the delicious food the “Riegerbau- er” also offers two exquisite suits.

Seegast GmbH St. Johann b. Herberstein 12 | 8222 Feistritztal | Tel. +43 3113 2301 [email protected] | www.riegerbauer.at Maria Fieberbründl East Styrian Treasures 41 Pilgrimage Church

Maria Fieberbründl, located in the heart of the woodlands of the Feistritz Valley, The inside of the church surprises visitors with its Neo-Romanesque hall and became a pilgrimage destination in the 19th century. A small wooden chapel, with the open roof truss. The light-flooded hall directs the gaze directly to the where a hermit lived, was already mentioned in 1864 in connection with an high altar with the Statue of Grace Maria Fieberbründl. The décor largely stems endowment. The altar area of today’s church was built according to plans from from the time of construction. Many votive tablets illustrate the history of pil- Robert Mikowics in 1879. In 1894 the “hall of worship”, which is slightly re- grimages, which tell tales of unusual miracles and thereby attracted in a short moved from the altar area and which has a pronounced Neo-Romanesque de- span of time a large number of pilgrims from Central Styria and the adjacent sign, followed according to plans from Heinrich Lötz. While connecting the two Southern Burgenland. Since 1953 Capuchin padres take care of the pilgrimage parts in 1954 the architect Karl Lebwohl erected a bell tower over the inserted site, which still is of unwavering popularity. In the simple transept construction transept. The tower replaced the former construction over the Chapel of Grace. from 1954 the mighty Rieger organ from 1994 takes pride of place. The three-part peal was cast in 1947 by the bell maker Ernest Szabo. We recommend that you also visit the Bründl chapel next to the church, which was built in 1978. Here you can find the more recent votive tablets arranged around the much older Bründl statue. To moisten the eyes with the “Bründl water” is a custom derived from the beginnings of the pilgrimage culture in Fieberbründl. Anticonvulsant properties are attributed to the water.

In the wood behind the church you can find the “Gradieranlage”, an open air inhalation facility. It operates according to rules conceived by Pastor Sebastian Kneipp, whereby salt water trickles down blackthorn twigs and enriches the air with salt particles. East Styrian 42 Treasures East Styrian Treasures 43

Kirchenwirt Durlacher

The family Durlacher, already in the third generation, runs this tradition- al restaurant. Honest, simple and regional cuisine is on the menu and that is what this establishment is known for. Pilgrims and tourists can look forward to comfortable rooms in a familial atmosphere. Culinary tip: fresh breaded fried chicken and homemade cakes

Josef Durlacher Maria Fieberbründl 2 | 8222 Feistritztal | Tel. +43 664 3923949 [email protected] | www.durlacher.at Pischelsdorf East Styrian Treasures 45 Parish Church Pischelsdorf

The parish church in Pischelsdorf, dedicated to St. Peter and St. Paul, is the larg- Directly in front of the church, on the main square, the Marian column stands. est church building in the style of Historicism in Eastern Styria beside the parish It was gifted in 1664 by Johann Maximilian von Herberstein as a thank you for church in Feldbach. It was built between 1898 and 1902 according to plans by the the victory over the Ottoman troops in Mogersdorf an der Raab. Two buildings, architect Johann Pascher from Graz. From the parish church, documented for between the main square and the church, from the Late Middle Ages that were the first time in 1205, only the basement of the former tower has survived. The part of the “Taborgaden” (a fortification around the church) have survived. bell tower with 77 m is the tallest in Eastern Styria and can be visited during the summer half-year every first and third Sunday of the month. Out of the four bells only one from the year 1787, cast by Sales Feltl from Graz, could be preserved. The largest and the smallest bell are from 1923 and were cast in steel by the bell foundry Böhler in Kapfenberg. The second largest bell is a work by the bell foundry “Bochumer Verein” from 1956.

The spacious and lofty pilaster church is not only remarkable because of its archi- tecture but also because of the echo, an acoustic peculiarity.

The Late Baroque side altars with the altarpieces Death of St. Joseph and St. Flo- rian, the statues St. Erhard and Patritz (left) as well as John and Paul were passed on unaltered from the old church. On the high altar (1909), however, only a few works of art found a new place including the Virgin of Mercy statue (at the core Late Gothic), the Holy Trinity group, the statue of the patron saint of the church and the tabernacle. The large statues on the sides depict the name-giving saints (Charles Borromeo and John Nepomuk) of the constructor of the church, Dean Karl Borromäus Heiter. The pulpit, the pews and a smaller altar of the Holy Cross are from the time of construction. The casing of the current organ is from 1913, the same year the stained-glass windows were finished. The organ itself only remains partially a work by the organ maker Konrad Hopferwieser from Graz who built it in 1913. The organ was extended in the years 1941, 1954 and 1992, respectively, and has 39 stops on three manuals and the pedal now. East Styrian 46 Treasures East Styrian Treasures 47

Cemetery Church Pischelsdorf Gasthof „Zur Neuen Post“

Today’s succursal church St. John Nepomuk on the cemetery in Pischelsdorf is only a small part, the sanctuary, of the large pilgrimage church in honour of St. Nepomuk that the architect Georg Stengg from Graz had planned there in 1741. Building work had to be stopped because of financial difficulties. Accord- ingly simple is the interior of the church apart from the large altarpiece from the time of construction. It depicts the Glorification of St. Nepomuk and deserves renown beyond this region. The small positive organ is from 1751.

In rural areas there has always been an inn next to the church. In Pischels- dorf am Kulm it is the restaurant “Zur neuen Post” (to the new post- ing house), which is owned by the family Stibor. After church, culinary delights and nice company go together! Here you can enjoy the nicest outdoor dining area of the region where you can sit underneath an old chestnut tree and admire the tallest bell tower of Eastern Styria. So, “in Gott’s Nam’ Pischdorf zu!” – “In god’s name, to Pischelsdorf”

Thomas Stibor Pischelsdorf 20 | 8212 Pischelsdorf am Kulm | Tel. +43 3113 2216 [email protected] | www.gasthof-stibor.com Blaindorf East Styrian Treasures 49 Succursal Church Blaindorf

The succursal and pilgrimage church in Blaindorf is dedicated to the saints Se- bastian, Roch and Radegund. It was built in the Late Gothic style in 1508. On the “eve of the reformation” the landowner Bernhardin von Herberstein established a pilgrimage site there, which summarized all the sorrows and fears of the resi- dents: the many wars, severe weather and epidemics – especially the plague – all this left people vulnerable in former times.

The three bells were sourced from the bell foundry Ernest Szabo in Graz in 1946, 1948 and 1951.

In the year 1693 alterations were made in the Early Baroque style in connection with the refurbishment of the church interior. Especially the high altar from the workshop Christoph Hofstetter in Hartberg must be highlighted. The altarpiece shows the patron saints before Mary with a baby Jesus flanked by the statues of St. Radegund and St. Barbara. Overhead, the statue of St. Florian is enthroned. His feast day is the 4th of May, which currently still attracts many pilgrims to Blaindorf. His image can also be found on the Early Baroque altar of Mary, as a statute on a wall bracket as well as a processional figure on a support rod. He is especially remembered on one of the votive paintings from 1704, which is a re- minder that Großsteinbach was miraculously spared from the Kuruc onslaught. The pulpit and the right side altar are from the time around 1736. The altarpiece depicts the holy family at the tomb of St. Rosalia (patron against the plague). The mighty statue on the wall of St. Donatus (patron of weather) deserves a special mention as well as the Late Gothic mural painting of the twelve apostles. The Baroque organ came to Blaindorf in 1908. It was built in 1750 but originally stood in the Altersheimkirche (retirement home church) in Graz. East Styrian 50 Treasures East Styrian Treasures 51

Hexn Stubn

Right next to the Late Gothic church, in the centre of Blaindorf, this lovely Votiv painting from 1704 family-run business can be found. Enjoy home-style cooking in the fam- ily-friendly restaurant run by Rupert and Irmgard Wachmann. All year round you can taste superb regional dishes and seasonal treats in a cosy atmosphere. Church goers, cyclists on the Feistritz Valley cycle track (R8) and everyone looking for something special is sincerely welcome in the “witches den”.

Family Wachmann Blaindorf 18 | 8265 Blaindorf | Tel. +43 3386 8210 [email protected] East Styrian 52 Treasures

St. Stefan in Hofkirchen East Styrian Treasures 53 Succursal Church St. Stephen

The succursal and pilgrimage church St. Stephen (St. Stefan) in Hofkirchen was already mentioned in 1364 as an aristocratic endowment in a charter. It is the only remnant of the manor near the river Safen.

The Late Gothic building from 1501 is the most significant church building of the Late Middle Ages in northern East Styria after the pilgrimage church Pöllau- berg. The added on vestry from 1771 and the ridge turret from 1878 complete today’s building.

The current peal consists of two bronze bells, which were cast in 1949 by the bell foundry Ernest Szabo in Graz.

Of no less importance are the frescoes from the time of construction, whereby the Last Judgment fresco next to the high altar is considered the chief work. The mural paintings in the nave are partially hidden by the Early Baroque décor. The crucifixion of Christ, the Pentecostal miracle, the legend of St. George and the three holy men are referenced here.

The high altar, which was erected in 1648 by Christoph Hofstätter from Hart- berg, is the oldest preserved Early Baroque altar of the region. The main picture shows the martyrdom of St. Stephen with a painting of Mary overhead. The statues depict St. Marcus and John the Evangelist, St. Cathrine and St. Barbara above and all are crowned by St. Florian, the patron saint of firefighters. East Styrian 54 Treasures East Styrian Treasures 55

The side altars were erected in 1663, on the left side with paintings of Mary with baby Jesus and St. George, on the right side with St. Sebastian and St. Roch. In this way the Late Gothic murals are thematically continued in the Early Baroque imagery.

The organ is a work by the organ maker Ludwig Greß from Graz and was built in 1803. Pöllau bei Hartberg East Styrian Treasures 57 Parish Church Pöllau (former abbey church)

The buildings surrounding the monastery on the main square were finished in Pöllau. While Vorau managed to superbly hide flaws in the architecture with 1747. Via the gate you arrive in the actual “Stiftsbezirk” (abbey district). Here sumptuous furnishings, Pöllau convinces with its grandiose architecture. From you find yourself in front of one of the most important Baroque church build- the foremen, Remigius Horne stands out. He decidedly shaped the sacral land- ings of Styria. The parish in Pöllau was mentioned in a charter for the first time scape of Eastern Styria with his churches until his death in 1750. Two provosts in 1163 and was the home of the Augustinian Canons from 1504 to 1785. The of the monastery are considered the spiritual fathers of this church, Michael monks came to Pöllau from the monastery in Vorau. Maister (died 1696) and Johann Ernest Ortenhofen (died 1743).

With a length of 62 meters, today’s church building is the eighth largest in Styria Matthias von Görz was chosen at a young age to be the creator of the entire fres- despite only having a third of the length of the famous St. Peter’s Basilica. It coes and was primed for this task. He was able to get to know the great masters was built in several stages between 1701 and 1723. The other dimensions of the of his time, Pozzo, Rubens or Rottmayr, while on an educational journey. The church are also impressive: The nave height is 21.4 m, the dome height is 42 m churches San Ignazio (1694) or San Andrea della Valle in Rome were important and the tower height is 53 m. The combined surface of the 54 windows covers examples of the great architecture of the time as well as the St. Peter’s Church in an area of 400 m2. The light coming in through the windows enhances the effect Vienna and the Matthiaskirche (St. Matthias Church) in Breslau, which was only of the architectural design of the church. completed in 1706. The Evangelists inside the dome in Pöllau are almost liter- ally a copy of the ones in the church San Andrea della Valle. Matthias von Görz The first construction plan from 1680 might have been conceived by Domenico worked in the front section of the church until 1712 and finished in 1718 with the Sciassia, a master builder from the Early Baroque period who helped with al- large ceiling fresco of the nave. In 1723 he painted the vestry in the northern part terations of the abbey St. Lambrecht and the basilica in Mariazell. When Jakob of the church. Pöllau completely refrained from using stucco. Only the illusion- Schmerlaib constructed the parish church Gabersdorf near Leibnitz he applied istic paintings create the impression of three-dimensional space. This technique the trefoil layout for the first time in Styria, which seems to have been the rea- was also used to create the necessary architecture in between scenes like the son for a change of plan in favour of this new layout in Pöllau. In 1701 the row of painted on arcades above the galleries on the sides. Fitting the church building contract, though, was awarded to Joachim Carlone. The last stylistic with altars wasn’t as consistent as the construction itself. Between 1722 and 1725 interventions took place during the construction of the church like the addition all altars were at least furnished with painted tablets and altarpieces including of curved gallery balustrades. This brought movement into the design, which the high altar, which could only be finished in 1779 when it received its current was heightened through the sumptuous use of architectural paintings. Even form. The high altar already has modest classicistic features unlike the sumptu- though the west facade and the second bell tower couldn’t be finished, remark- ous Baroque altars in the side semi-domes. able results were achieved here in Pöllau. Two foremen, 20 journeymen and on average 70 helpers were employed. The expansion of the abbey church in Vorau happened almost parallel to and in competition with the construction work in East Styrian 58 Treasures

The focal point of the high altar is the altarpiece depicting the patron saint paint- ed by Johann Adam von Mölck from 1779. The statues of John and Paul only followed in 1804. The small credence altars to the sides are also from that time and show St. Anthony of Padua and Charles Borromeo.

The large side altars to the north and to the south, which are facing each other, were finished in 1720. The large painting of St. Augustine by Johann Adam von Mölck was not added until 1778. In the shadow of the Trinity of God, Augustine plunges the false teachers Mani and Pelagius into the abyss. The statues to the side depict St. Alipius, Leo I, Leo II and Possidius, which are all saints of the order of St. Augustine. East Styrian Treasures 59

The large altarpiece on the northern side altar from 1722 is a work by Johann Cyriak Hackhofer from Vorau. It shows Mary with a baby Jesus giving the rosary to Dominic and Simon Stock. The statues depict Joachim, Anna, Elisabeth and Joseph.

The pulpit is the work of the sculptor Jakob Peyer and has artistic similarities with his works in Weizberg and Graz-Strassgang (all circa 1775). The figures are allegories of faith, hope, steadfastness and love. The pulpit ceiling depicting the Conversion of St. Paul would have been unthinkable without the works of the famous sculptor Veit Königer serving as models.

The side altars are only partially from the first phase of furnishing the church like the altar of the Holy Cross (1725), St. John altar (1724) as well as the altar of the Three Kings (1727). In 1778 the St. John Nepomuk altar was added and in 1779 the Holy Kin altar. Only in 1843 was the original St. Michael altar replaced with an altarpiece depicting Mary Immaculate, which has thereby become a testament to the burgeoning spirituality in the 19th century.

The ceiling frescoes invariably draw the eyes upwards. The ceiling of the nave is one big work of art without any form of compartmentalization. The central theme is the worship of the apocalyptic Lamb through angels and saints of the Old and New Testament and the worship and exaltation of the Holy Cross.

To the sides, in the mock arcades, many saints of the order are depicted.

The dome with its eightfold echo, with the four evangelists and with the vast heavenly vault as well as countless angles is almost impossible to absorb in its entirety. Again, this is one big work of art without any subdivision. East Styrian 60 Treasures East Styrian Treasures 61

The ceiling frescoes in the semi-domes above the large altars show the apothe- osis of the respective titular saint. The story of the murals concludes with the frescoes above the organ, which symbolise the link to the “heavenly music”. In front of the stalls for the summer choir, the monastery organ takes pride of place. It was created in 1739 by Johann Georg Mitterreither from Graz. It can fill the entire church with sound, despite only having 24 organ stops, thanks to the superb acoustic of the church. A soft yet powerful sound emanates from this formidable instrument.

The Dome in Salzburg (finished in 1628) served as a model for the wonderful interior of the church, which incorporates Roman architectural ideas.

Two rows of side chapels and the galleries above characterize the nave of the mighty pilaster church. The light entering through the large windows, depend- ing on the time of day, seemingly changes the appearance of the church interior and always leaves one with new impressions of this beautiful sacred space.

Today’s peal of the church bells is a faint reflection of former glory. The fourth largest bell from Marx Wenig stems from the year 1549, which is 45 years after the monastery was established. The second largest bell (1655) from Adam Ross- tauscher is also a relic from the predecessor building of today’s church. The Late Baroque bells have unfortunately not survived.

The largest bell (1922) was cast in steel by the bell foundry Böhler in Kapfenberg, where the third largest bell (1923) was also sourced from. The smallest bell was created by Josef Pfundner from Vienna in the year 1952. East Styrian 62 Treasures

Schlosswirt Gasthaus-Fleischerei Ritter

At the heart of Pöllau, you can find the parish church and today’s castle, Since over a hundred years the restaurant Ritter on the main square of the former abbey of the Augustinian Canons, as well as the Schlosswirt Pöllau, close to the parish church, serves delicious traditional cuisine. (castle innkeeper), which is run by the family Schmitz. Here you can en- The in-house butchery ensures quality products on your plate. joy meals cooked with regional products and refined Austrian cuisine Get stuck into homemade cakes and regional treats. Whether you are in with a creative, modern twist. The family Schmitz happily helps with a group or travelling alone, you will enjoy the home-style cooking and festivities like marriages, buffets or receptions for which the refectory, the the hospitality of the restaurant Ritter. large Freskensaal (fresco hall), or in good weather the outdoor area of the castle are at your disposal.

Claudia and Jürgen Schmitz Schloss 1 | 8225 Pöllau | Tel. +43 664 881 98 717 Hauptplatz 6 | 8225 Pöllau | Tel. +43 3335 2303 [email protected] | http://schlosswirt-schmitz.at [email protected] East Styrian Treasures 63

Restaurant Haider Gasthof Restaurant Hubmann

The restaurant Haider is a family-run business in the third generation at Close to the centre of Pöllau, the restaurant Hubmann awaits guests with the heart of the Nature Park Pöllau Valley. A short walk away, the centre traditional cooking and warm hospitality. In the morning you can enjoy of Pöllau with the imposing parish church, the “Styrian St. Peter’s Basil- the plentiful “Nature Park Breakfast” with regional, hearty treats. For ica”, is located. lunchtime or in the evening many delicious dishes are being served like On the menu you can find classic and seasonal dishes as well as vege- the traditional Erdäpfelwurst (potato sausage), breaded fried chicken or tarian creations. The restaurant is especially well suited for celebrating a “pilgrim’s menu”. special occasions in a laid-back atmosphere. You might also like to relax and re-energize yourself in one of the comfy, rustic guestrooms outfitted with solid wood furniture.

Ortenhofenstraße 73 | 8225 Pöllau | Tel. +43 3335 2353 Herrengasse 21 | 8225 Pöllau | Tel. +43 3335 2267 | Fax DW 4 [email protected] | www.restaurant-haider.at [email protected] | www.gasthofhubmann.at Pöllauberg East Styrian Treasures 65 Parish and Pilgrimage Church Pöllauberg

The parish and pilgrimage church Pöllauberg is one of the main works of the The clustered columns have alternating pear-shaped and round poles. The walls Styrian High Gothic period. are intricately decorated with delicate round poles which are partitioned by bal- dachins with small figures. On the walls of the choir, underneath the windows, For the year 1375 the endowment of a chaplaincy is recorded and in 1384 the en- the decorations increase and become one big tracery artwork. The shallow blind dowment of glass windows is mentioned. Both dates imply that there must have arcades and seating niches are richly decorated with sculptural capitals and been a church building. The construction probably started a few years prior and Green Men (faces made of leaves). was finished towards the end of the 14th century. It is assumed that inspiration was taken from the “Parler art” (a family of masons, sculptors and builders) and Of particular interest are the Gothic seating niches in the choir ambulatory. the Wiener Dombauhütte (a workshop for the construction of the St. Stpehen’s Above simple stone benches are blind arcades with pointed arches. In between Cathedral), although the workmanship in Pöllauberg shows great independence are slender columns above which protruding corbels are mounted depicting dif- and skill. ferent types of foliage, bizarre masked heads and the winged symbolic figures of the four Evangelists. At the top, a second row of pointed arches can be seen. For the outer appearance of the church the destruction of the Gothic tower in Blind tracery is used to depict crockets and spires. On the north side is a simple 1674 is regrettable. At the base, segmented buttresses on the central axis as well sacrament house with a wimperg and spires. as rich decorations give a hint of the former glory of the tower. The gate with a pointed arch crowned by a wimperg and the two spires to either side can also be From the rest of the décor only the Late Gothic miraculous image of the Virgin found in Mariazell or at the church St. Erhard in Breitenau. Higher up two rows Mary with a baby Jesus remains. Since circa 1714 it is enthroned in the middle of blind arcades have been preserved. The entire area of the tower is connected to of the high altar. The altar was installed between 1714 and 1730 by Marx and Jo- the nave via a vestibule, above which the galleries with high pointed arches open seph Schokotnig according to designs by Remigius Horner. Judging by the size, it out into the double -span nave. might have been destined for the abbey church in Pöllau but couldn’t be installed there because the construction of the choir hadn’t been finished yet. Like the Wallseerkapelle (Wallseer Chapel) in Enns (Upper Austria), which was built in the second quarter of the 14th century, Pöllauberg also has a strange layout. The double-span nave changes into a triple-span choir and the apse has the shape of a 5/8 polygon which facilitates a choir ambulatory. The vaulting of the ceiling is achieved via a four-part cross-ribbed vault. Only where the change from the double-span to a triple-span ceiling happens and where the diagonal walls with two windows are located a sexpartite rib vault is employed. East Styrian 66 Treasures East Styrian Treasures 67

Nowadays the Gothic vestry houses a chapel of worship which in turn houses a few Baroque votive pictures. For the new vestry, Matthias von Görz created a large ceiling fresco in 1711, which depicts the genealogy of Jesus.

The pulpit, which was also designed by Remigius Horner in 1730 and decorated with figurines by Joseph Schokotnig, served as a model for many East Styrian pulpits. On the pulpit the four Latin Church Fathers Ambrose, Augustine, Je- rome and Gregory are depicted. On the pulpit ceiling God the father and angles are enthroned and flanked by the four Evangelists.

To the north two side altars with folk saints can be found. On the one hand the Patricius altar, depicted here as the advocate for the poor souls in the purgatory, and on the other hand the Florian altar, depicted here as the patron saint of the former abbey in Pöllau and flanked by the statues of John and Paul. The small side altar next to the high altar houses a painting by Martino Altomonte which shows the Holy Kinship (from before 1745).

The music gallery, built in 1691 and decorated with stucco by Joseph Serenio as well as paintings by Antonio Maderni, houses the historic organ from 1684. It is an important “monument to sound”.

With 18 stops over two manuals and the pedal it is considered a grand organ taking into account the time of creation. Its history is not entirely traceable. The second manual (positive) seems to have only been installed around 1730, accord- ing to the pipes, a work by Andreas Schwarz from Graz. It is not irrefutably confirmed whether or not Johannes Lilling is responsible for the older parts of the organ. East Styrian 68 Treasures

The Gothic bell tower was replaced with a new Early Baroque construction in second and fourth largest ones (both in 1950). The third largest was cast in 1678 1678. The cupola of the tower in its current form was added in 1744. There are by the bell foundry Adam Rosstauscher in Graz. four bells in the tower. The largest one was cast in 1958 in St. Florian just like the East Styrian Treasures 69

Gasthof „Zum Jagawirt“ Berggasthof König „Steirischer Weingasthof“

The long-established restaurant “Zum Jagawirt” (to the hunters inn), Right next to the imposing pilgrimage church, Styrian delicacies wait for which is run by the family Goger, sits directly atop Pöllauberg, really hungry guests. More than 300 years of hospitality experience ensure you close to the famous pilgrimage church. Every year many pilgrims visit will enjoy your stay. The restaurant is beautifully furnished and boasts a Pöllauberg and the restaurant is a popular place to eat and to exchange wooden beam ceiling. There is plenty of room for family celebrations like stories. Regional products and seasonal delicacies are turned into fine baptisms and marriages. The excellent Styrian and international wine se- creations. Taste the carefully prepared Nature Park dishes cooked with lection is also very popular with guests. love. If you need relaxation you might like to try one of the lovely, spacious guestrooms.

Pöllauberg 150 | 225 Pöllauberg | Tel. +43 3335 2388 Pöllauberg 5 | 8225 Pöllauberg | Tel. +43 3335 2311 | Fax DW 5 [email protected] | www.zumjagawirt.com [email protected] | www.berggasthof-koenig.at East Styrian 70 Treasures

Annakirche East Styrian Treasures 71 Anna Chapel Pöllauberg

At the highest point, just above the pilgrimage church, stands the Anna chapel. It is a small Baroque building from around 1730, although the original construction probably dates back to medieval times and was most likely the first chapel on Pöllauberg.

On the high altar from 1644 is a painting of “Anna Selbdritt”, a Christian icono- graphic style that depicts saint Anne with her daughter Mary and a baby Jesus. The preserved Early Baroque altar itself is one of the oldest in the region. The large statue of Ulrich from 1673 faces an oversized side altar. The altar painting shows Catherine of Siena and Dominic receiving the rosary. Also worth a men- tion are the painting of St. Donatus, the patron of weather, and the statue of St. Anthony of Padua. The Baroque chandelier from the large church also stems from the time around 1730 just like the small processional organ, which was cre- ated by Johann Georg Mitterreither. East Styrian 72 Treasures

Kalvarienberg East Styrian Treasures 73 Church of the Sacred Heart

Along the way of the cross from Pöllau to the pilgrimage church atop Pöllauberg, in a remote spot, stands the Church of the Sacred Heart.

The church was built in 1699 and expanded to today’s size in 1750 by the master builder Remigius Horner from Pöllau through the addition of a trefoil choir. In 1776 Johann Adam von Mölck decorated the interior of the church with ceiling frescoes depicting Christ appearing before St. Therese. The high altar, which stems from the time of construction, shows the devotion of the church, the heart of Jesus Christ on the cross. A pieta points towards the Stations of the Cross behind the church. The oldest parts are the crucifixion group and the figure of a repentant Peter from 1706. In 1715 a larger Chapel of the Sacred Heart of Mary was added. It was built by Remigius Horner and became the prototype for all larger piety col- umns within the sphere of influence of the abbey in Pöllau until far into the 19th century. Matthias von Görz created the rosary pictures in which the theme of the Church of the Sacred Heart is continued, so to speak, from the Son of God to the Mother of God. In 1774 the Stations of the Cross were built. The current frescoes were painted by Felix Barazutti in 1919. East Styrian 74 Treasures Stone wayside shrines and “European Trail of Reflection”

Outside the church an impressive panoramic view over the Pöllau Valley awaits. Here, at the end of the pilgrim route, stands the last of the five “Tabernacle Col- umns”. It was erected in 1673 and depicts the Holy Trinity as well as the crest of and an inscription by the donor Thomas Ignaz von Mauerburg. These columns were erected by members of the Brotherhood of the Holy Rosary and consist of blocks of sandstone. The upper part rests on delicate columns and is topped off with a wrought-iron cross. At the edge of the forest, three of the six stelae from the “European Trail of Re- flection” can be found which were erected in 2000. Hans Schweighofer, local art- ist and sculptor, created the wayside shrines and Prof. Franz Weiß, painter and enamel artist from West Styria, created the colourful panels. East Styrian Treasures 75 Chapel of Good Fortune Masenberg

In the spring of 2008, the worldwide first chapel was auctioned off on eBay and purchased by the Wilfingers, a family of hoteliers. The Baroque chapel in Hof bei Kirchberg/Raab from the 18th century was dismantled and rebuilt with a lot of effort and attention to detail atop mount Masenberg (elevation of 1,261 m) in the Nature Park Pöllau Valley.

The interior of the chapel consists of an Our Lady of Fatima Statue, an old cruci- fix and eleven small icons. The bell was cast in September 2008 by the bell found- ry Grassmayr in Innsbruck. This special place of power with an alpine shelter and a summit cross is owned by the family Wilfinger since 1987. East Styrian 76 Treasures Church of St. Anne atop Masenberg

Halfway along the old pilgrims’ path between Hartberg and Pöllauberg the Church of St. Anne is situated.

The Gothic building was erected between 1453 and 1499 with a Baroque bell tower added around 1710. The Baroque high altar, a donation from the Lords of Herberstein from 1676, is adorned with a painting of “Anna Selbdritt” (Anna, Mary and Jesus). The Late Gothic side altar from 1522 is one of the few chief works of sculpture of this time in East Styria. The group of statues “Anna Selb- dritt” is flanked by panel paintings of St. George and St. Florian. Underneath are the Three Holy Kings accompanied by St. Wolfgang and St. Urban. East Styrian Treasures 77

INDEX OF PHOTOGRAPHS

Front page: 31 Parish Church Stubenberg, painting “Assumption of 51 Succursal Church Blaindorf, votive painting Parish Church Anger, church interior with high altar Mary”; ledger stone of Hans Drachsler aus Neuhaus 52 Succursal Church St. Stefan, church interior and high (right) altar 7 Fresco “Last Judgement”, Succursal Church 32 Parish Church Stubenberg, church interior with 53 Succursal Church St. Stefan, Fresco “Last Judgement” St. Stefan organ 54 Succursal Church St. Stefan, from the outside 9 Parish Church Pöllau, part of the organ 33 Parish Church Stubenberg, from the outside 55 Succursal Church St. Stefan, church interior and 11 Bells of the Parish Church Pischelsdorf 34 Parish Church St. Johann bei Herberstein, church organ; altarpiece “The Stoning of St. Stephen” 12 Lake Stubenberg with Stubenberg in the background interior and high altar 56 Parish Church Pöllau, high altar 13 Parish Church Pöllau with Pilgrimage Church 35 Parish Church St. Johann bei Herberstein, tabernacle; 58 Parish Church Pöllau, church interior and organ Pöllauberg section of the altarpiece (left); high altar and lager side altar 14 Parish Church Anger, church interior with high altar 36 Parish Church St. Johann bei Herberstein, church 59 Parish Church Pöllau, the dome 15 Parish Church Anger, Gothic frescoes (left); Epitaph interior with oratory and organ; historic Roman stone 60 Parish Church Pöllau, aerial view (left); altar of the Lorenz Gigler 37 Parish Church St. Johann bei Herberstein, oratory Holy Cross (top); churchyard 16 Parish Church Anger, church interior and organ from inside (top); church and abbey (below) 61 Parish Church Pöllau, organ 17 Parish Church Anger, from the outside 38 Parish Church St. Johann bei Herberstein, vestry 64 Pilgrimage Church Pöllauberg, church interior and 18 14 Holy Helpers Church Anger, church interior and (left); entrance to the Holy Tomb (right) high altar high altar 39 St. Johann bei Herberstein/Siegersdorf, Holy Tomb 66 Pilgrimage Church Pöllauberg, organ (left); Gothic 19 14 Holy Helpers Church Anger, votive painting 40 Pilgrimage Church Maria Fieberbründl, altar area seating niches (right) “Salvation of someone condemned to death” (top); 41 Pilgrimage Church Maria Fieberbründl, votive 67 Pilgrimage Church Pöllauberg, votive painting picture of St. Dionysios (bottom) painting; Rieger organ “Pilgrimage from Hartberg to Pöllauberg” (top); St. 20 14 Holy Helpers Church Anger, organ 42 Pilgrimage Church Maria Fieberbründl, nave Florian altar (bottom) 21 14 Holy Helpers Church Anger, from the outside 43 Pilgrimage Church Maria Fieberbründl, from the 68 Pilgrimage Church Pöllauberg, from the outside 22 St. Ulrich’s Church Külml, high altar outside 70 Anna Chapel Pöllauberg, altar 23 St. Ulrich’s Church Külml, organ (top), from the 44 Parish Church Pischelsdorf atop Kulm, church 71 Anna Chapel Pöllauberg, from the outside with outside (bottom) interior and high altar “Tabernacle Column” 24 Chapel Mariabrunn atop Kulm, altar; votive painting 45 Parish Church Pischelsdorf, from the outside 72 Church of the Sacred Heart, from the outside “Christ in the winepress” 46 Parish Church Pischelsdorf, church interior and 73 Church of the Sacred Heart, altar 25 Chapel Mariabrunn, from the outside organ (left); Cemetery Church Pischelsdorf, from the 74 Stone wayside shrine and stelae 26 Parish Church Puch, church interior with high altar outside (top); organ (bottom) 75 Chapel of Good Fortune Masenberg, from the outside 27 Parish Church Puch, altarpiece St. Oswald 47 Parish Church Pischelsdorf, altar 76 Church of St. Anne atop Masenberg, from the outside 28 Parish Church Puch, church interior with organ 48 Succursal Church Blaindorf, high altar 29 Parish Church Puch, from the outside 49 Succursal Church Blaindorf, organ Last page: 30 Parish Church Stubenberg, high altar 50 Succursal Church Blaindorf, from the outside Section of the organ in Pöllau (middle) East Styrian 78 Treasures

Church folder “Organ Hiking”

Here you can find brief descrip- With your smartphone you can tions and opening times of the not only listen to the bells, organs churches of the ApfelLand Lake and guided tours of the churches Stubenberg and the Nature Park but you can also receive digital as- Pöllau Valley. Enjoy the cultural sistance when planning your tour treasures of both regions! from one church to the next.

Das kleine KIRCHENMALBUCH Wandern von Kirche zu Kirche mit digitalem Tourenplaner Church Colouring Book und Audioguide

Churches, organs and bells are waiting to be coloured in. The creative journey goes from the ApfelLand Lake Stubenberg to the Nature Park Pöllau Valley. East Styrian Treasures 79

Audio Guide Tourism Association & Tourist Information Nature Park Pöllau Valley Download guided tours of the 8225 Pöllau, Schloss 1 churches as well as the sounds of Tel.: +43 3335 / 42 10 the organs and bells with the free [email protected] “Hearonymus” app to your smart- www.naturpark-poellauertal.at phone. Tourism Association & Tourist Information ApfelLand Lake Stubenberg

8223 Stubenberg am See 5 Tel.: +43 3176 / 8882 [email protected] www.apfelland.info

PUBLISHING INFORMATION:

Conception: TV ApfelLand-Stubenbergsee, TV Naturpark Pöllauer Tal. Text: Gottfried Allmer. Photos: Fotolia, guteidee, STG-Reinhard Lamm, Ewald Neffe, Helmut Schweighofer, C. Schwetz, Chri Straßegger. Graphic: guteidee, Anger | Print: Schmidbauer, Oberwart Cartography: Werbeagentur geografik, Graz / 19-32 / 11 19, Topographic map outline: ©BEV KM500R, 11 11 19 Typesetting and printing errors expected.

With support from the federal government and states, and the European Union