Maria vom guten Rat

Whispers of hope carried on the mountain breeze led us to Maria vom guten Rat. Here, nestled on a hill in Böckstein, this sanctuary has offered solace and guidance for centuries. Maria vom guten Rat, also known as the “Church on Kirchberg,” overlooks the historic gold mining center of the Hohe Tauern. It’s a relatively young church, built between 1764 and 1767. Imagine the scene: miners, weary from their toil, seeking comfort in the gentle glow of candlelight within these walls. The church’s early classical design, the work of architect Wolfgang Hagenauer and builder Christian Glaner, is a testament to the enduring power of faith. Its octagonal shape, topped by a domed tower with a lantern, stands as a beacon of hope against the dramatic backdrop of the mountains. Inside, Maria vom guten Rat embraces visitors with a sense of serenity. The oval-shaped main room, adorned with high arched niches and pilasters, creates an intimate atmosphere. Look up and you’ll see Johann Weiß’s magnificent ceiling fresco from 1765. It depicts the miraculous image of Our Lady of Good Counsel from Genazzano, Italy, carried by angels, surrounded by the adoration of the faithful. The fresco also cleverly incorporates the years 1764, 1765, 1766, and 1767 within its architectural details. The high altar, designed by sculptor Johann Baptist Hagenauer and featuring a painting by Rosa Hagenauer, further emphasizes the church’s dedication to Maria vom guten Rat. This replica of the Genazzano image, bathed in a radiant halo, reinforces the message of hope and guidance that this sacred place embodies. As you stand here, absorb the tranquil atmosphere. Remember the miners who sought solace here, and feel the enduring power of faith that continues to draw people to Maria vom guten Rat, a sanctuary of hope in the heart of the Austrian Alps.