Discover Melk: A Guide to the Town's Top Attractions
Nestled where the River Danube meets the Wachau Valley, the charming town of Melk is renowned for its majestic Benedictine Abbey, a gem of Austrian monastic architecture.
Once a Roman outpost named Namare, Melk evolved from a strategic castle into a celebrated pilgrimage site after the Benedictines took over in 1089 and housed St. Koloman's relics. By the 13th century, it flourished as a market town. The current Baroque abbey, replacing its fire-damaged predecessor, was constructed from 1702 to 1738. Melk's old town center retains much of its architectural heritage, making it a prime Austrian destination.
The surrounding area offers attractions like the scenic Donauradweg cycling path and nearby castles, including Schloss Schallaburg, Schloss Schönbühel, and the ruins of Aggstein Castle.
1. Melk Abbey
Melk Abbey stands as a palatial monastery with a 325-meter layout around seven courtyards. Its west end, featuring a twin-towered church, is particularly striking. The abbey's museum, housed in the Imperial Rooms, and the Imperial Corridor with portraits of Austrian rulers are highlights. The Marble Hall and library, boasting over 90,000 volumes, are also noteworthy. The Abbey Church, a Baroque masterpiece, offers guided tours in English.
2. Melk Old Town
Stroll through Old Town Melk's narrow streets, where the Town Hall Square, the Hauptstrasse, and the Main Square form the village center. Notable landmarks include the House for Itinerants, the Rathaus, and the old abbey tavern. The Danube banks offer splendid views, and the old post office now serves as a museum.
Guided tours in Melk
3. Schallaburg Castle
Five kilometers from Melk, Schallaburg Castle showcases Renaissance architecture with a two-story arcaded courtyard and terra-cotta decorations. English tours are available.
Official site: www.schallaburg.at/en
4. Aggsbach-Dorf and Maria Langegg
Aggsbach-Dorf is home to the Servite monastery of Maria Langegg, known for its Baroque architecture, frescoes, and library. The Pilgrimage Museum and the nearby resort of Aggsbach Markt are also attractions.
5. Artstetten Castle
Artstetten Castle, once owned by Archduke Franz Ferdinand, is filled with historical artifacts. The gardens are famous for their peonies.
Official site: www.schloss-artstetten.at/en
6. The Ruins of Aggstein Castle
The ruins of Aggstein Castle offer panoramic views of the Wachau Valley. The castle's history is tied to the "robber barons" who once dwelled there.
7. Maria Taferl
Maria Taferl's Baroque pilgrimage church is a historic site with stunning views, notable for its artwork and the revered figure of the Madonna.
8. The Wachau Valley
The Wachau Valley, between Melk and Krems, is a picturesque region dotted with historic towns and ruins, popular for its scenic beauty and cultural heritage.
9. Schloss Schönbühel
Schloss Schönbühel, a 12th-century castle, features a relief of The Last Supper and is near the market town of Schönbühel.
10. Spitz
Spitz, a town with Renaissance and Baroque architecture, is known for the Tausendeimerberg hill and the Late Gothic church of St. Maurice.
11. Göttweig Abbey
Göttweig Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a former Benedictine abbey with a stunning Baroque façade and richly decorated interior.
Where to Stay in Melk for Sightseeing
For a comfortable stay, consider hotels like Hotel Restaurant zur Post near the abbey, Hotel Stadt Melk on the Hauptplatz, or the countryside Pension Marillenhof.
