Kalvarienbergplatz
Haydn Mausoleum Open: 9am- 5pm daily Apr- Oct
Nov- March open for groups only
The Bergkirche, also known as the Haydn Church (Haydnkirche) or Kalvarienbergkirche (Church of the Calvary), is a prominent Roman Catholic church in Eisenstadt, the capital of Burgenland, Austria. Dedicated to the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, it was constructed in the early 18th century under the patronage of Prince Paul Esterházy and stands as a testament to the Esterházy family's cultural influence. Located at Josef-Haydn-Platz 1 on a hill in the Oberberg quarter, a short walk west of Esterházy Palace, the church is renowned for its unique Baroque architecture, the integrated Kalvarienberg (an artificial Calvary hill depicting the Stations of the Cross), and its association with composer Joseph Haydn, whose mausoleum is housed within. The site's coordinates are approximately 47°50′50″N 16°31′10″E. As of August 22, 2025, it remains a key attraction for pilgrims, music enthusiasts, and tourists, blending spiritual, historical, and artistic elements in a scenic setting overlooking Eisenstadt and the surrounding countryside.
The origins of the Bergkirche trace back to the early
18th century, when Prince Paul I Esterházy, inspired by the Calvary in
Maria Lanzendorf near Vienna, commissioned its construction between 1715
and 1803. The church was built on an existing hill, artificially
heightened with added earth, to create a dramatic pilgrimage site.
Franciscan friars contributed to the vivid statuary of the Kalvarienberg
over 250 years ago, establishing it as a renowned destination once
hailed as the "eighth wonder of the world." The main church structure
was completed in the early 1700s, with the dome fresco added in the late
18th century by J. W. Baumgartner.
The church's musical history is
profound, serving as the premiere venue for most of Joseph Haydn's six
late masses during his tenure as Kapellmeister for the Esterházys. It
also hosted the 1807 premiere of Beethoven's Mass in C, commissioned by
the family. Celebrations for these events were lavish, including masses,
banquets, balls, Turkish music, illuminations, and fireworks, with the
prince occasionally entering on horseback. The original organ, built in
the 18th century by Gottfried Malleck, was played by both Haydn and
Beethoven and has been restored to its original state.
In the 20th
century, the church gained further significance with the interment of
Haydn's remains: most of his body was placed in a marble sarcophagus in
1932, with his skull—delayed due to phrenological studies—added in 1954.
No major renovations are noted in recent years up to 2025, though the
site continues to host events like the annual International Haydn Days
in September, which may include performances here.
The Bergkirche exemplifies Baroque architecture with
an unconventional layout divided into two distinct parts. The main
church is roughly square, featuring a Baroque interior described as a
"trompe-l'œil fantasy in pinks and greys," with ornate altars,
paintings, and a multi-leveled ceiling adorned with stunning frescoes.
The dome, painted in the late 18th century by J. W. Baumgartner, depicts
"The Ascension of Christ" and adds to the illusory depth. The facade is
relatively modest, emphasizing the hilltop setting for panoramic views
of Eisenstadt.
To the east lies the Kalvarienberg, an artificial
mountain constructed with passages, grottoes, and winding paths that
integrate seamlessly into the church complex. This feature, filled with
dramatic Baroque statuary, creates a immersive pilgrimage experience.
The overall design leverages the natural and enhanced terrain for both
aesthetic and spiritual impact, with acoustic properties (an echo time
of 4.5 to 5.5 seconds) ideal for musical performances. The church's
exterior includes a modern entrance at the back for accessibility,
blending historical elements with practical adaptations.
Haydn Mausoleum: A side chapel houses a large marble
sarcophagus containing Joseph Haydn's remains, making it a focal point
for music lovers. The mausoleum's history includes a plaque detailing
the unusual story of Haydn's skull, separated for phrenological
examination before reunification in 1954.
Kalvarienberg (Calvary
Hill): This artificial hill features 24 Stations of the Cross with
vividly painted, life-sized statues created by Franciscan friars. The
passages and grottoes depict scenes from the Passion of Christ in a
dramatic Baroque style, offering a sensory pilgrimage experience once
considered a wonder of the world.
Haydn Organ: The original
18th-century organ by Gottfried Malleck, restored and still functional,
was played by Haydn and Beethoven. Its console is now in the nearby
Haydn Museum, but the instrument remains a highlight for its historical
acoustics.
Artworks and Frescoes: Includes the dome fresco by J. W.
Baumgartner, ornate altars, and colorful trompe-l'œil decorations in the
main church, enhancing the Baroque grandeur.
As of August 22, 2025, the Bergkirche is open seasonally. From
August 21 to September 30, 2025: Monday to Saturday 9:00 AM to 6:00
PM, Sunday 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. From October 1 to 31, 2025: Monday
to Saturday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Sunday 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The
church itself is free to enter, but access to Haydn's tomb may incur
a small fee (around €2.50 for adults, €2 for concessions, based on
recent data—confirm on-site). Guided tours are available, often
focusing on the Calvary and Haydn connections; book via Burgenland
Tourism or local operators for €5–€10 per person.
Accessibility
is moderate: the site involves many stairs and uneven paths in the
Kalvarienberg, with limited guardrails, making it challenging for
those with mobility issues. Enter from the modern church at the back
if the front door is locked. Parking is available nearby but can be
limited due to pedestrianized streets; public toilets are near the
newer church section. Visitors note a potential strong odor inside
and recommend sturdy shoes for the hill. Allow 30–60 minutes to
explore, longer for the full Calvary path. Combine with Esterházy
Palace (a short walk away) for a full day. Photography without flash
is permitted. Reviews rate it 4–5 stars, praising its uniqueness and
history but suggesting it's best for those interested in music or
Baroque art. For updates, check burgenland.info or contact +43 2682
62638.
The Bergkirche embodies Eisenstadt's rich Baroque heritage and the Esterházy family's patronage of the arts, serving as a bridge between spirituality and classical music. Its role in premiering works by Haydn and Beethoven underscores its importance in music history, with the mausoleum attracting global pilgrims honoring the "Father of the Symphony." The Kalvarienberg's pilgrimage tradition highlights its religious significance, drawing visitors for centuries as a site of devotion and reflection. As part of Eisenstadt's UNESCO-recognized cultural landscape, it contributes to Burgenland's identity as a crossroads of Central European history. In 2025, it continues to feature in events like the Haydn Days, fostering appreciation for Austria's musical legacy amid stunning architecture.