St. Peter's Abbey

St Peter's Abbey

The Salzburg audio-guided tour invites you to quiet contemplation in the courtyard of St Peter's Abbey, whose long walls tell of more than thirteen centuries of history. It is the oldest abbey in the whole German-speaking world.

A foundation of Saint Rupert

It was Saint Rupert, first bishop of Salzburg and patron saint of the city, who had the abbey built around the year 696. For him, it was a means of establishing Christianity in the city. The establishment, dedicated to Saint Peter, first bishop of Rome, became a major spiritual and cultural centre of the region. The oldest abbey of the German-speaking world, which gathers Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Liechtenstein, thus remains deeply linked to the Christian origins of Salzburg.

What there is to see

The abbey complex unfolds its courtyards, its conventual buildings and its church in an atmosphere conducive to contemplation. Over the centuries, the site has been enriched and altered, mingling the periods. The spiritual heart of the city since its origins, St Peter's Abbey can be discovered with respect and constitutes an essential stop to understand the history of Salzburg.

Practical information

St Peter's Abbey is in the heart of the old town of Salzburg, listed as world heritage. A monastic place in activity, its courtyards and its church can generally be visited during the day, with respect for silence and services, the hours possibly varying according to the season. Access to the courtyards is on the level.

Who founded St Peter's Abbey?

Saint Rupert, first bishop of Salzburg and patron saint of the city, around the year 696, to establish Christianity in the city.

Why is the abbey so important?

It is the oldest abbey in the whole German-speaking world and a spiritual centre linked to the Christian origins of Salzburg.