If you appreciate historical Roman Catholic architecture in Upper Bavaria, the Holy Cross Church of Holzhausen in Alling offers a fascinating glimpse into centuries of sacred heritage. While records of a church on this site date back to around 770 under Bishop Arbeo of Freising, the current Holy Cross Church was built around 1400 in the Late Gothic style. Dedicated to the Holy Cross of Christ, the structure underwent a massive Baroque transformation in the 1690s, with plasterwork crafted by Johann Schmuzer of the Wessobrunner School.
Outside, you will notice a simple rural Southern German exterior topped by a 1727 octagonal bell tower featuring an onion dome, small analog clock, and abat-sons. Step inside to see an elaborate Baroque high altar with a central crucifix flanked by statues of the Virgin Mary, Saint John, Saint Constantine, and Saint Helena. You can also explore two side altars depicting the Nativity and the Descent from the Cross, alongside ornate ceiling paintings highlighting the Vision of Constantine and Moses lifting the Brazen Serpent.
It is a peaceful, authentic spot to absorb rich Bavarian religious art.
What to see at Heilig-Kreuz-Kirche (Holzhausen)
- Baroque high altar featuring a large crucifix alongside statues of Saints Constantine and Helena
- Ceiling paintings depicting the Vision of Constantine and Moses lifting the Brazen Serpent
- Elaborate 1690s stucco plasterwork by Wessobrunner School architect Johann Schmuzer
- 1727 octagonal bell tower topped with a classic onion dome and small analog clock
- Two side altars illustrating the Nativity of Jesus and the Descent from the Cross
Visiting tips
Look closely at the octagonal bell tower to spot its original exterior details, including the traditional onion dome, analog clock, and sound-directing abat-sons.
How long: 30-60 minutes · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Heilig-Kreuz-Kirche (Holzhausen) is easy to reach on Olching’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Fürstenfeld Abbey and Burgstall Gegenpoint. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Olching travel guide.
See the full Olching travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.