Mariazell is as rich and splendid as Europe itself. The treasure chambers, votive paintings and the votive offerings of countless pilgrims bear witness to the generations of people who have passed through here. The Mariazell Statue of Grace, the Magna Mater Austriae – Magna Domina Hungarorum – Mater Gentium Slavorum, provide inspiration to pilgrims regarding the purpose of their own life's journey.
The spirituality and the divine inspiration of this site, the varied landscape and the numerous leisure, cultural and sports amenities give this region its unique charm. The countryside around Mariazell is the ideal location for relaxing and recharging your batteries. Besides the many things to see and do, you can also just sit back and relax.
Last year Mariazell celebrated its 850th anniversary, which was marked by the visit of Pope Benedict XVI and thousands of pilgrims and believers. It has always been a site of pilgrimage at which the European community is celebrated as the coming together of people of different languages, cultures and nations. With this in mind, why not celebrate the European idea by meeting in the Mariazell Europeum – a full-service conference and convention venue next to the basilica. Covering 4,500m² and accommodating 1,200 people.
CHECK IN:
Regardless of whether your participants arrive by private car or by shuttle bus, they will all be enchanted by Mariazell and the magnificence of the surrounding area.
A welcome reception at which all participants receive a welcome present will take place in the traditional Raiffeisen Hall in the main square. This ceremony will be followed by a key tombola, and participants will be provided with a complete information package on Mariazell and the event itself.
Participants’ luggage is delivered to the various accommodations, and we also provide a transfer shuttle for participants.
KICK-OFF:
The Mariazell village brass band will march out to officially welcome the participants as the "key to the village" is symbolically handed over to the organizers. This is followed by the start of an exciting and varied programme of events, e.g. a laser show at the Ark of the Forest on the Bürgeralpe.
CONFERENCE:
This place of pilgrimage in Styria now has another landmark. The Mariazell Europeum conference venue, which will be completed in October 2008, comprises four large function rooms and two seminar rooms, which are all equipped with the latest conference technology. The rooms, which also have full black-out facilities, provide participants with a wonderful panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.
The Mariazell Europeum also boasts a 700 m² terrace, which is ideal for receptions, car shows and the like, and which is transformed into an ice rink in winter. The heart of the Europeum is the 1,400 m² conference area, which combines the restored building and the modern complex in perfect architectural symbiosis. The new construction blends harmoniously with the traditional buildings and grounds of Mariazell.
Further conference venues are offered by hotels in the vicinity.
ACTIVITES:
The valley station of the Mariazell Bürgeralpe is situated right next to the Europeum. The Mariazell Bürgeralpe is a family-friendly skiing area for people of all ages. The heavenly winter landscape of the Mariazell region is perfect for winter walks, snowshoe trekking, sledging and curling. In summer, you can also enjoy and discover this wonderful countryside on your mountain bike, swimming in Lake Erlauf, diving, fly fishing or on the giant scooter course.
Mariazell has a lot to offer besides sports. For example, you can visit the Pirker Family and watch how they make traditional gingerbread and distil schnapps. You can also learn some of the secrets of the famous Mariazell Magenlikör digestif at the Arzberg Distillery. If you like it more "homey", why not spend an evening in the traditional Sebastiani loggers' cabin and feast on Sterz (a thick type of polenta) and Erdäpfelspatzen (potato noodles).
The wellness centre with its panoramic view from the Ötscher to the Hochschwab mountains invites you to wind down and relax. The wellness landscape (800 m²) comprises a pool as well as sauna, beauty and massage areas.
FINALE:
Lantern procession via the observatory to the Mariazell Bürgeralpe. Gala dinner and, as a highlight of the evening, the dazzlingly perfect Mariazell Mountain Wave (light, laser, sound and water show) on Austria's highest-altitude stage on the lake.
CHECK OUT:
Departure day begins with brunch accompanied by pleasant jazz music in the historic Scherfler Hall, where you can take a final look out over the Hochschwab and Ötscher mountains. Depending on the weather, the event will take place on the terrace.
For one last time, participants are invited to enjoy the magical atmosphere of Mariazell and recall the past few days with their new friends and business contacts.
You and Rentavillage By Xnet X
Learn More!