Marienpilgerweg

Through the high valleys of Carinthia, where Austria meets the Italian border, the Marienpilgerweg leads pilgrims to the remote sanctuary of Maria Luggau. This alpine Marian pilgrimage passes through some of Austria's most dramatic mountain scenery, climbing to a baroque church that has drawn the faithful since the 16th century.

📜 History & Significance

The pilgrimage to Maria Luggau began in 1513, when a peasant woman named Helena received visions of the Virgin Mary instructing her to build a chapel. Despite initial skepticism, the site developed into an important regional pilgrimage, drawing the faithful from Carinthia, Tyrol, and Italy across the high passes.

The baroque church that stands today, with its twin towers visible across the valley, was completed in the 18th century. The Servite friars who have tended the sanctuary since 1635 continue to welcome pilgrims in the tradition of alpine hospitality.

🥾 Route Overview

The Marienpilgerweg covers approximately 85 km through the Lesachtal and Gailtal valleys, typically completed in 3-5 days of walking. The route traverses alpine pastures, forest paths, and traditional villages in one of Austria's most unspoiled mountain regions.

From Kötschach-Mauthen, the path climbs through the Lesachtal - one of Europe's most sustainable tourism regions - passing through villages where traditional alpine farming continues. The final approach to Maria Luggau offers views of the Carnic Alps along the Italian border.

☩ Key Pilgrimage Sites

The Sanctuary of Maria Luggau houses a miraculous image of the Virgin in its baroque setting. The church contains impressive frescoes and votive offerings from centuries of pilgrimage. Adjacent buildings provide pilgrim accommodation in the Servite tradition of hospitality.

Along the route, wayside shrines and village churches mark the path, while the landscape itself - soaring peaks, rushing streams, and alpine meadows - provides the contemplative setting for this mountain pilgrimage.