The Tulln Ossuary, a late Romanesque structure dating from around 1240, is one of the most significant ossuaries in Europe. Likely commissioned by Duke Frederick II, it bears similarities to buildings in Jak, Hungary. Its eleven-sided floor plan may be based on a sacred building in Jerusalem. The upper level served as a cemetery chapel and is accessed through a magnificent Romanesque portal. The lower level served as an ossuary until 1785.
Inside, the ossuary impresses with its domed architecture and frescoes that visually juxtapose Christian virtues and vices. On the right, the wise virgins represent goodness; on the left, hellish spirits lead the foolish virgins to their doom. Directly opposite the altar, a figure holding a wine barrel symbolizes intemperance. The ossuary is a unique testament to medieval art and religious beliefs.
Visits:
A tour of the chapel area of the Tulln Ossuary is possible with advance reservation:
as part of guided city tours—for schedule information and registration, contact the Tulln Tourist Information Office at +43 (0)2272 67566 or tourismus@tulln.gv.at
Private tours with a certified guide—by appointment at visit@tullner-karner.at.
Visitor Services:
Every Friday and Saturday from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. during the months of (mid-)May, June, July, August, and September, access to the chapel is permitted in the presence of an authorized guide.
Email: visit@tullner-karner.at
Website: www.tullner-karner.at
Public Transportation by Train & Bus:
The trip takes about 20–40 minutes on the S40 or the Regional Express (REX) from Vienna’s Franz-Josefs-Bahnhof and about 70 minutes from St. Pölten. You can find the current schedule here.
Public bus routes (Postbus, Bahnbus, Regionalbus, Wieselbus, and circular routes) will also take you conveniently to your destination.
