Mank pilgrimage trail
On the old but revived path (Mostviertler Wallfahrtssteg) you will encounter stunning views on your journey from St. Pölten to Mank.
-
pathway©
Pilgrimage trail from Cathedral Square (Domplatz) in St. Pölten to Mank
When St.Pölten was hit by a large plague epidemic in 1645, pastors advised the residents to make a pilgrimage to the collegiate parish of "Maria Mank am grünen Anger" to implore help from the Blessed Mother there. However, under Franz Joseph II, who forbade the pilgrimage, the path fell into oblivion. Luckily, it was revived and newly signposted in 2009 as part of St.Pölten’s 850th anniversary celebration.
This is the route of the Mank pilgrims' path
The pilgrimage trail, which is about 30 kilometers long, begins at the St. Pölten Cathedral and takes one through a typical Mostviertel hilly landscape via Ober-Grafendorf, St. Margarethen and Hürm to the pilgrimage church of Maria Mank on the green Anger. At first the route follows the Pielachtaler Pilgerweg before branching off onto Roman paths leading to Mank. Much of the journey winds through fields, past charming chapels, and treats you to breathtaking views of the Ötscher and the Alpine foothills.
Tip: The Mank pilgrims' path is also navigable by bicycle. On fog-free days, the tour is also suitable as a winter hike, offering a magnificent mountain panorama.
Brochures and maps are available free of charge at the tourist information office.
Facts about the tour:
- difficulty: moderate
- route: 32,01 km
- ascent: 440 meters in height
- descent: 423 meters in height
- duration: 10:00 h
- lowest point: 249 m
- highest point: 333 m
Features:
- wonderful views
- rest stops (food and accommodation)
