Entrische Kirche Cave
Entrische Kirche
A limestone cave at the mouth of the Gastein Valley, with stalactite halls that once served as secret worship sites for Protestants, visited on guided tours.
The Entrische Kirche ("Gloomy Church") is a limestone cave near Klammstein at the mouth of the Gastein Valley, with stalactites, stalagmites and wide chambers. In the 17th and 18th centuries, when the Prince-Archbishops of Salzburg persecuted Protestants, local believers held secret worship services inside, which gave the cave its name. The cave can only be visited on a guided tour, which takes about an hour. The temperature inside stays around 7°C year-round, so bring a jacket. The walk uphill from the car park to the entrance takes about 20 minutes. The cave lies north of Dorfgastein, about 20 km from Bad Gastein. Drive, or take the train to Dorfgastein and then walk or grab a taxi. It is a good alternative plan on a rainy day.
Opening hours
Approx. May–October; guided tours by session (check official sources)
Nearby sights
- Alpentherme Gastein
- Schlossalm
- Stubnerkogel & Suspension Bridge
- St. Nicholas Church
- Kötschach Valley
- Kaiser Wilhelm Promenade
- Gastein Waterfall
- Bad Gastein Belle Époque Centre