Easy hikes and walks in Probstwald

„Maria Schutz stands as a defiance to all enemies” ⛪ Experiences have led to this sentence being inscribed in large letters above the apse of our pilgrimage church. The pilgrimage to Maria Schutz originated because people found healing here during times of plague and attributed their deliverance from the plague to Mary's intercession. https://mariaschutz.at

The food is great and the price-performance ratio is more than okay

Around 1130, an Ortolfus de Clamma was mentioned in a document. In 1339, Hermann II. von Klamm-Pitten sold the castle to Dukes Albrecht, Friedrich, Leopold, and Otto. The castle was probably in the possession of the von Rappach family (noble family) until the beginning of the 15th century.

The original structure dates back to the 12th century and comprised only a keep, a palace, a chapel, and a small courtyard. In the middle of the 13th century, the complex was first expanded. The first lords of the castle were Hermannus de Wartenstein, who is first mentioned in a document around 1190, and the ministerialis Chunradus de Wartenstaine, who is mentioned in a document from the year 1220. In 1287, Heinrich von Stubenberg acquired the castle. He was followed as owner by Erchengerus de Wartenstein.

The mini-chapel by the roadside near Schlagl bei Gloggnitz is a quiet, inconspicuous place along the route.

Wartenstein Castle sits majestically overlooking the Schwarza Valley. This historic complex has shaped the landscape on the edge of the Rax region for centuries. From here, breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys unfold.

The view of the Rax reveals the striking high plateau of the Raxalpe with its steep rock faces. From the heights around Schottwien, the massif appears particularly impressive. An alpine panorama that enhances every tour in the Semmering region.

The **Pilgrimage Church of Maria Schutz** on the **Semmering** is an impressive religious building located in a picturesque setting. Here are some interesting facts about this church: 1. **Location**: - The church stands **visibly on the northern slope of the Sonnwendstein** and is a popular pilgrimage site. It is located in the village of **Göstritz**, which belongs to the municipality of Schottwien. 2. **Architecture**: - The **Baroque church** is known for its **two striking towers** that rise majestically into the landscape. The magnificent interior and ornate altars are also noteworthy. 3. **History**: - The pilgrimage church has a long tradition and has also been a monastery church since **1925**. It is the only **Passionist monastery** in all of Austria. 4. **Panoramic view**: - From the church, you have a **unique panoramic view** of the surrounding mountains, including the **Rax**, **Schneeberg**, and the **Semmering region**. This makes it a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. 5. **Events**: - Regular **church services** and **pilgrimages** take place in the pilgrimage church. Until **November 1st**, **All Souls' Day memorial letters** are also available, in which the names of the deceased can be written. The Maria Schutz pilgrimage church is therefore not only a place of prayer, but also a cultural and tourist highlight in the region.