Melk Abbey-Wachau: Best Historic Destination in the World!

MELK, Austria - International Award for Authenticity Achieved by a Member of the “Klosterreich”

A mighty monastery in a magnificent landscape: Melk Abbey and the cultural landscape Wachau have been nominated “Best Historic Destination” by the “National Geographic Traveler Magazine”. Of 109 heritage destinations worldwide, 280 international journalists and tourism professionals voted for the Austrian destination over the Rideau Canal Corridor (Ontario) and the historic city centre of Ghent (Belgium).

About Melk Abbey, the National Geographic Traveler writes: “The Benedictine abbey is immaculately preserved, concerning both its outside buildings as well as the variety of rooms open for visitors. Our guided tour was extremely informative and lively - you really feel transferred back into the past.”Pater Martin is responsible for both culture and tourism at the abbey, supported by 50 guides who look after 440 000 visitors each year. Tours are offered in 9 different languages.

Melk Abbey is one of 20 members of the “Klosterreich”, an association of monasteries and convents in Austria. Furthermore, there are two members from both the Czech Republic and Hungary. Abbeys like those in Melk, renowned for their authenticity, showcase their heritage and encourage visitors to take part in daily activities and prayers. Likewise, the oldest guesthouses of the world welcome all those longing for peace, relaxation and spiritual renewal. “Every stranger that arrives shall be welcomed like Jesus Christ,” according to the Holy Benedict. Ever since, the offer of the monasteries has increased, ranging from health and cultural tourism to total seclusion/recreation. In 2009, the focus is on the libraries and gardens/parklands of the monasteries.

More information about Melk Abbey: www.stiftmelk.at and through “Klosterreich” at ITA Hermann Paschinger A-3491 Strass, Prof. Kaserer Weg 333 Tel. +43(0)2735-5535-0 mailto:info@kloesterreich.at www.kloesterreich.at Image library available from mailto:kultur.tourismus@stiftmelk.at, Tel: +43(0)2752-555-225

Source: Kloesterreich

More information about Melk Abbey: Hermann Paschinger, A-3491 Strass, Prof. Kaserer Weg 333, Tel. +43(0)2735-5535-0, mailto:info at kloesterreich.at