Maria Trost Basilica

Maria Trost Basilica

Attraction Introduction

The Maria Trost Basilica (Mariatrost Basilica) stands atop a hill in the eastern suburbs of Graz. This 1714-built Baroque structure with its twin towers is regarded as the most suitable Catholic church for weddings and pilgrimages in the area, and is also known as the “artistic pearl among sacred churches.”

The basilica’s exquisite architecture and its treasured statue of the Virgin Mary, lecture hall, murals, and more attract numerous visitors and worshippers. There is an interesting story about the statue of the Virgin Mary here: Long ago, a noble Duke Johann Maximilian lived in the area. Monks from a nearby monastery gifted him a statue of the Virgin Mary, which was placed in the castle’s chapel. The duke’s daughter suddenly fell ill with a strange disease that no doctor could cure. She prayed day and night to the statue, eventually moving the Virgin Mary, and she soon recovered. In gratitude, the duke donated the statue to the basilica. The story spread, and many locals, even people from Croatia and Hungary, came to pray here, creating a lasting tradition. To this day, the Maria Trost Basilica remains one of Europe’s most renowned churches.

Tip: A peaceful walk through the Rosegger Forest Path from the basilica leads to the famous Hilmteich. From there, you can take tram line 1 back to the old town.

Graz, Austria