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

Silent Night Chapel

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 the development of infrastructure that creates crucial connections between communities. For centuries, this bridge was the only connection between Oberndorf and Laufen and also the only crossing over the Salzach between Salzburg and Tittmoning. The bridge has experienced many floods that have repeatedly destroyed it. Between 1901 and 1903, a new bridge was finally built that met the needs of its time. In 2006, another step in continuing this historical bridge tradition was taken with the construction of the Europasteg. 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 still visible, testifying to the long construction history and humanity's resilience against natural forces. This new footbridge is not only an architectural work but also a symbol of connection and cohesion between the two banks and the communities associated with them.

The Silent Night Museum in Oberndorf not only illuminates the origins of the famous Christmas carol "Silent Night! Holy Night!" but also the historical circumstances of that era. The museum's rooms tell the story of the song's humble beginnings and its rise to a world-renowned melody that connects people across generations. Currently, the special exhibition "ANOTHER STORY" from the SIMULTAN series opens a fascinating dialogue between museum culture and contemporary art. The artist Karin Fisslthaler explores the reception of the song and its far-reaching cultural influences. At the heart of this exhibition is the life and work of the Austrian author and actress Hertha Pauli. In 1943, while in exile in the USA, she wrote the children's book "Silent Night: The Story of a Song," which reveals the background and significance of the song for subsequent generations. These initiatives allow visitors to rediscover and reflect on the multifaceted history of the song and the associated social movements. A visit to the Silent Night Museum is worthwhile for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the fascinating world of music history.

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.