Altötting has been known for centuries as the spiritual heart of Bavaria. Pilgrims from all over Europe come here to pause before the Miraculous Statue of the Virgin Mary.
One of the most important places in Altötting is the Treasury, a space that delights even the most discerning art lovers. This is not an ordinary museum. It is a sanctuary of beauty, faith heritage, and tradition.
When you enter the Treasury (Schatzkammer), the impression is immediate: an immense history captured in small, perfectly crafted details. Nothing here is accidental. Every object bears witness to gratitude, devotion, and craftsmanship of a level rarely seen today.
At the heart of the collection shines its most precious treasure, the pride of Altötting and a masterpiece of European sacred art: the “Golden Horse” (Goldenes Rössl). Only 62 cm tall, yet astonishing in its precision, this golden figure was created in 1404 in the royal workshops in Paris. Adorned with pearls, gemstones, and enamel, it was once a royal gift of love. Today it ranks among the world's most important works of Gothic goldsmithing.
On an area of more than 1,000 m², the museum presents the spiritual heritage of Altötting: around 2,000 rosaries ranging from simple wooden ones to those made of pearls, silver, and coral; 1,200 jewelry items such as rings, brooches, medals, and family keepsakes; more than 1,600 pilgrimage coins and badges; precious vestments, chalices, patens, and liturgical textiles; as well as votive offerings and thanksgiving paintings donated by ordinary people.
The most unique pieces include the Füllkreuz – an ivory crucifix with miniature Passion scenes set in lapis lazuli, a silver cradle, and the bridal wreath of Empress Sisi, transporting visitors into the romantic world of Habsburg history.
A part of the exhibition is dedicated to the history of pilgrimage itself, from its origins through its development in Bavaria to the key moments in the history of Altötting as a pilgrimage town. This journey culminates in memories of the papal visits of 1980 and 2006. Among the artifacts are the episcopal ring of Pope Benedict XVI, placed at the sceptre of the Mother of Grace, and a rosary donated by the Pope.
Visitors can also admire a collection of Madonna figures from the Shrines of Europe pilgrimage network – all Marian images from these destinations gathered in one place: six sculptures and one icon.
The museum is also an architectural gem. Its golden, polished brass surfaces gently reflect the light, while the elegant fusion of modern cubic forms with baroque surroundings creates a unique atmosphere. Walking through the interior feels like a symbolic journey from light to darkness and back, from reflection to awe. Here, spirituality meets art of the highest order.
The Schatzkammer emanates prayer, history, and beauty that have endured for centuries. Every detail, every exhibit, every ray of light reflected from the golden facade reminds us that Europe's heritage is not confined to archives and books.
The Treasury is an unforgettable and inspiring place. It is the living heart of history, thousands of human stories preserved in stone, metal, wood, and prayer. It is a space where art and spirituality coexist without haste. A must-see destination for anyone traveling the Shrines of Europe route.
Plan your visit and allow Altötting to tell you its story. Here you will feel not only the sacred atmosphere, but also the deep connection between humanity, tradition, gratitude, and hope.
