The heart of the town is the shrine of Mariazell and its magnificent basilica, an attraction for both pilgrims and visitors for centuries. Generation upon generation have left their marks here, as can be seen in the many treasure chambers, votive pictures and offerings left by pilgrims throughout the years. The Statue of Grace, Magna Mater Austriae (Magna Hungarorum Domina, Mater Gentium Slavorum) serves as a symbol of the journey for many of the people who visit Mariazell, often helping them to find their own personal aim in life.
In the summer months the Mariazeller Land Region offers numerous recreational activities in addition to leisurely hikes and climbing tours:
During the Mariazell Advent season, Austria’s largest traditional advent market offers a wide range of arts & crafts, regional delicacies and countless concerts and attractions for the whole family to help get you into the holiday spirit.
Throughout the winter, one of the most modern lift systems carries visitors to the perfectly prepared slopes of the Bürgeralpe mountain, as well as to the toboggan run and the snow park at the Gemeindealpe mountain.
The holiday season is slowly fading into memory, but the magic of winter is still with us. We invite you to explore a photo gallery showcasing the cities of the Shrines of Europe network in their Christmas and New Year’s attire.
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The Shrines of Europe network is being actively promoted at FITUR 2026 in Madrid, one of the most important international tourism fairs in the world. This is a unique opportunity to present the spiritual, cultural and historical heritage of Europe’s sanctuary cities to a wide audience of professionals and visitors from around the globe.
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A winter stay in Mariazell can be enhanced this season with a special attraction – Lichterzauber on the Mariazeller Bürgeralpe, a series of evening light installations set in a particularly scenic mountain landscape. For those who have not yet visited Mariazell in winter, this is the last opportunity to plan such a trip.
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As the Shrines of Europe Association, we always come together in this special time of the year. We warmly invite you to watch and share Christmas wishes from all the cities of the Shrines of Europe, each bringing its unique voice and local tradition into this common message of hope. May this festive season bring peace, hope, and joy to our communities, our pilgrims, and all who seek light on their journey.
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In the heart of Styria, at the foot of the picturesque Alps, lies a place that has attracted crowds of pilgrims and tourists for centuries – the Sanctuary of Our Lady in Mariazell. Here stands a small, simple, yet majestic statue known as Magna Mater Austriae, which has united people of different passions, languages, and nationalities for centuries.
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On the first weekend of July, Loreto transformed into a vibrant center of spirituality, culture and meetings. It was here, on July 4, that the third edition of the Shrines of Europe Festival took place – an event that proved once again that music, friendship and diversity can build real bridges between people and cities.
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