Fortified Church of St. Oswald

.. from high above, into the depths below

It is a story that moves us. The story of a mountain and its ORE,
a town with its people, of a fort with its church.
The ERZBERG shaped us, fed us, and so much more,
it made our town what it was, and what it is today.
The toil and sweat of generations lie deep within the mine tunnels of our mountain,
in the creation of our town, and in the walls of our fortified church

This story is truly unique, and that’s why we want to tell it!

FORTIFIED CHURCH

HELP, THE TURKS ARE COMING

Why the medieval fortified church was built into a castle.
An enormous effort. Was it worth it?

ST. OSWALD’S
PARISH CHURCH

FIRST SMALL,
THEN WOW

How the small chapel became a mighty church.
Did it survive the centuries unscathed?

THE DEPOT

WAY OF LIFE BETWEEN HEAVEN AND “ERZBERG”

How rusty saints are restored to former splendor and the minor’s life story. An unconventional “show project”.

WHAT WE DO

A new home for the “discarded” – renovation of the Mesner Tower

It is now more than 50 years since the last members of the Mesner family left the ancient walls of St. Oswald. Now, the former “Mesner Tower” is being transformed into a different kind of home: a home for those who were moved out of the church more than 100 years ago – the “discarded” saints that once resided in the baroque interior.

But until then, there is still a lot to do!

Tourism Development of the Fortified Church of St. Oswald
The EU LEADER development program encouraged us to take a new step forward.
After completing a full renovation program, the fortified church is now being made more accessible to a broader public.
A newly created walking tour allows you to gain new insights and perspectives on the church. Existing features are cast in a new light, and even enhanced with the addition of modern elements.

GALLERY

GOD BLESS!

We are overwhelmed by just how many people
have supported this project to rescue our fortified church. And who continue to do so!
Through their financial contributions, over the past 12 years we were able to invest
a total of 1.3 million euro in restoration of this architectural jewel
at the foot of the Erzberg.
May God bless you all!