Nestled in the charming town of Hall in Tirol, Austria, the Franziskanerkloster Hall stands as a serene testament to centuries of spiritual devotion and architectural evolution. This Franciscan monastery, with its tranquil ambiance and rich history, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the religious and cultural tapestry of the region.
The origins of the Franziskanerkloster Hall date back to 1474, when Franciscan preachers from Vienna began visiting Hall. However, it wasn't until 1635 that the monastery found a permanent home, thanks to the generosity of Pantaleon Schiestl von Liechtenthurn. He donated his estate, Scheibenegg, to the Franciscans, paving the way for the establishment of the monastery outside the city walls. The construction, overseen by architect P. Rufin Laxner OFM, was completed in 1644, with the monks settling in by 1645.
Throughout its history, the monastery has faced its share of challenges. A devastating fire in 1760 led to significant rebuilding efforts. The dedication and artistry of Christoph Anton Mayr from Schwaz brought new life to the monastery's cloisters, depicting the life and legacy of St. Francis of Assisi through 31 stunning paintings.
The heart of the monastery is its church, dedicated to Maria von den Engeln and the Assumption of Mary. Originally constructed in 1644, the church was rebuilt after the 1760 fire and underwent a neo-Romanesque transformation in the 19th century. Its architecture is characteristic of mendicant orders, featuring a simple hall design with a recessed choir and a distinctive onion-domed roof turret.
The interior is a harmonious blend of historical and artistic elements. The flat pilasters and vaulted ceilings create a sense of grandeur, while the frescoes added in the 1920s bring vibrant color and narrative to the walls. Notable works include The Birth of St. Francis by Josef Bachlechner the Elder and further frescoes by Franz Xaver Fuchs, depicting scenes like The Sermon to the Birds and The Sermon to the Fish.
The monastery church houses a wealth of artistic treasures. The right side altar, adorned with a high relief of St. Anthony by Josef Bachlechner the Elder, and the left side altar, featuring a Pietà by Johannes Hutter, are both highlights. Beneath the Pietà, a triptych by Bachlechner illustrates the life of St. Paschal Baylon, now displayed at the arch of the Cross Chapel.
The Cross Chapel itself is home to a late Baroque crucifixion group from around 1760, attributed to Gregor Fritz of Birgitz. This chapel, along with the church and monastery, is a protected historical monument, ensuring the preservation of its rich heritage for future generations.
The monastery's history is marked by resilience in the face of adversity. During World War II, the Nazis seized the property on September 30, 1940, closing the church and disbanding the monastic community. However, the Franciscans returned in 1945, and by June 13 of that year, the first mass was celebrated in the reopened church.
A major renovation from 1997 to 1999 ensured the structural integrity and aesthetic restoration of the monastery, allowing it to continue serving as a place of worship and reflection.
Visitors to the Franziskanerkloster Hall can wander through its peaceful cloisters, where the life of St. Francis is vividly depicted in Mayr's paintings. The tranquil courtyard offers a moment of contemplation, surrounded by the monastery's historic walls.
The library wing, a testament to the generosity of Msgr. Cserveny, invites exploration of its collection of religious texts and historical documents. The expansion of the garden further enhances the monastery's serene atmosphere, providing a lush setting for meditation and relaxation.
Today, the Franziskanerkloster Hall stands as a living legacy of faith, art, and history. Its walls echo the stories of those who have walked its halls, offering visitors a chance to connect with the past and find inspiration for the present. Whether you're drawn by its architectural beauty, its artistic treasures, or its spiritual significance, a visit to this monastery is a journey into the heart of Tirol's rich cultural heritage.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.
Buy Gift Vouchers
