Franciscan Church, Salzburg 🇦🇹

If you are exploring the Altstadt section of Salzburg, Austria, step into the Franciscan Church (Franziskanerkirche), located right at the intersection of Franziskanergasse and Sigmund-Haffner-Gasse opposite the Franciscan Friary. As one of Salzburg's oldest churches, its roots trace back to an eighth-century sanctuary built during the time of Saint Virgil. The central nave, built in the early thirteenth century in a late-Romanesque style, stands as one of the oldest buildings in the city.

Inside, you will discover a captivating fusion of architectural eras. Admire the radiant Gothic choir, constructed between 1408 and 1450 to replace the earlier Romanesque choir, alongside a slender tower originally added in the late fifteenth century and later restored in the neo-Gothic style. The interior was expertly redesigned in the eighteenth century by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach in a striking baroque style.

During your visit, be sure to look for the impressive High Altar of red marble and gold, a Late Gothic Madonna statue sculpted by Michael Pacher of Tyrol, a winged marble altar from 1561, and frescoes by Conrad Laib on the triumphal arch. You can also view a twelfth-century marble lion resting on the pulpit staircase.

What to see at Franciscan Church, Salzburg

• One of Salzburg's oldest buildings, featuring a late-Romanesque nave built starting in 1208
• Eighteenth-century baroque interior and red marble High Altar redesigned by Fischer von Erlach
• Late Gothic Madonna statue (1495-1498) sculpted by Michael Pacher of Tyrol
• Twelfth-century marble lion sculpture located on the pulpit staircase
• Radiant Gothic choir surrounded by nine baroque-style chapels

Visiting tips

Take time to examine the pulpit staircase to spot a twelfth-century marble lion depicting a man pushing a sword into the beast's belly.

How long: 30-60 minutes · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Franciscan Church, Salzburg is easy to reach on Salzburg’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Hohensalzburg Fortress and Salzburg Cathedral. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Salzburg travel guide.