Melk Abbey and its Church

Why the Melk Abbey Church is special
Its church has one of the most dazzling baroque-style interiors in the world.

Top 3 must-see Melk Abbey attractions
Church interior
To some critics, the Melk Abbey Church decor is excessively busy, even for a baroque interior. But there's no denying that the overall effect is utterly striking. Precious frescos as well as paintings, statues, marble embellishments, and an awesome golden altar collectively fill nearly every wall and ceiling space.

Library
The picturesque library houses over 80,000 medieval volumes plus some priceless manuscripts.

Marble Hall
This abundantly marbled room with magnificent ceiling frescos was used for receptions and audiences.

More Melk Abbey tips & insights
History in brief
Leopold II gave the sizable castle to the Benedictines in 1089 and it became the Melk Abbey. Over the next five centuries, the monks renovated the complex to suit their needs. From 1702 to 1736, they demolished and completely rebuilt the church into the wonder we see today.

Location
Melk Abbey and its church sit on a rocky promontory overlooking tiny Melk Town and the expansive Danube River Valley. It's 90 minutes by road from Vienna, making it a popular day trip. Danube River cruise boats also stop by.

Location in Austria
Melk Abbey and its church sit on a rocky promontory overlooking tiny Melk Town and the expansive Danube River Valley. It's 90 minutes by road from Vienna, making it a popular day trip. Danube River cruise boats also stop by.