The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Oberndorf bei Salzburg

Oberndorfer Au

Oichten tributary of Salzach

The statue of Saint John of Nepomuk in the town of Oberndorf near Salzburg, in the Flachgau region, is a significant religious monument deeply rooted in the history and spirituality of the area. Created in 1720 by the talented sculptor Josef Anton Pfaffinger from Laufen an der Salzach, the statue was commissioned by Prince-Archbishop Franz Anton Harrach. It depicts Saint John of Nepomuk, venerated as the patron saint of penitents and thus a central figure in the religious life of many believers. The construction of the Baroque Calvary Steps, overseen by the Salzburg Court Architects, was an expression of faith and connection with God. Originally, the statue was framed by two side staircases until the construction of the flood control dam in the 1930s, which altered the appearance of the area. The statue of Saint John of Nepomuk is located on the pilgrimage route to the Church of the Visitation of Our Lady in Maria.

The history of the bridge in Altach is a fascinating example of infrastructure development that creates crucial connections between communities. For centuries, this bridge was the only link between Oberndorf and Laufen, and also the only crossing over the Salzach River between Salzburg and Tittmoning. The bridge has weathered many floods, which repeatedly destroyed it. Between 1901 and 1903, a new bridge was finally built to meet the needs of the time. In 2006, the construction of the Europasteg bridge marked another step in continuing this historic bridge tradition. The modern footbridge, designed with a length of 131.20 meters, runs slightly offset from the old bridge, offering an interesting perspective on the region's history. At low water, the remains of the old wooden bridge piers are even visible, testifying to the bridge's long construction history and humanity's resilience in the face of natural forces. This new footbridge stands not only as an architectural masterpiece but also as a symbol of the connection and unity between the two banks and the communities they serve.

In a small, peaceful village, where the air smells of pine branches and freshly baked bread, stands the Stille Nacht Chapel. Here, on the spot where the venerable St. Nicholas Church once towered, a new place of faith and contemplation has been created. Thanks to generous donations, this wonderful chapel blossomed after 12 years of hard work in 1937. The chapel's architecture is deliberately kept simple, a sign of humility and inner peace. Every year, visitors from all over the world flock here to give a moment for the soul in this modest sanctuary. The Stille Nacht Chapel, with its warm wood tones and peaceful atmosphere, invites contemplation. It is precisely its simplicity, unpretentious yet so moving, that makes it a lovely place where the Christmas spirit becomes palpable – a touch of magic that touches the heart.

Every year during Advent, from December 8th to 24th, a special post office opens in the Bruckmannhaus in the Oberndorf Silent Night district, where Christmas mail can be sent. Special postmarks are also available for customers.

In a small, peaceful village, where the air is fragrant with pine branches and freshly baked bread, stands the Silent Night Chapel. Here, on the site where the venerable St. Nicholas Church once stood, a new place of faith and reflection was created. Thanks to generous donations, this wonderful chapel blossomed in 1937 after 12 years of hard work. The chapel's architecture is deliberately simple, a symbol of humility and inner peace. Every year, visitors from all over the world flock here to spend a moment of quiet reflection in this humble place. The Silent Night Chapel, with its warm wood tones and peaceful atmosphere, invites contemplation. It is precisely its simplicity, unpretentious yet so moving, that makes it a lovely place where the spirit of Christmas can be felt – a touch of magic that touches the heart.

Maria Buhel