Ninth Committee Meeting on Renovation of Sonntagberg Basilica

On April 10, 2025, a significant meeting took place regarding the ongoing renovation of the Sonntagberg Basilica. This ninth committee session was chaired by the Governor of Lower Austria, Johanna Mikl-Leitner, and included influential figures such as Diocesan Bishop Alois Schwarz, Christoph Bazil, the President of the Federal Monuments Office, and Abbot Petrus Pilsinger.

During a subsequent press conference, the attendees provided updates on the renovation progress and outlined the upcoming phases of restoration scheduled through 2026. Governor Mikl-Leitner emphasized the Basilica's importance, describing it as a source of spiritual strength and inspiration, and indicated the necessity for the structure to shine anew.

The renovation project has been underway since 2015, with substantial progress made in the last two years. The eighth and ninth phases included the restoration of the church's interior, six side chapels, and various elements of the furnishings, along with targeted work on the facade.

Looking ahead, the tenth phase will focus on the interior, involving the restoration of the high altar, pews, baptismal font, and the installation of a climate monitoring device. The eleventh phase will address the restoration of the organ and votive paintings, as well as the renovation of the remaining facades of the new building and the historical Turkish fountain. The estimated costs for these two phases are projected at EUR900,000, alongside an additional EUR30,000 for electrical work.

Mikl-Leitner noted that the preservation of monuments is not only about maintaining historical heritage but also plays a crucial role in cultural tourism, contributing significantly to the local economy. The government of Lower Austria invests approximately EUR5 million annually in monument preservation, which generates about EUR25 million in investments and secures around 500 jobs.

The Sonntagberg Basilica will also enhance the upcoming regional exhibition in 2026, where visitors can engage with the exhibition and find solace at the basilica.

Bishop Alois Schwarz added that the beauty and splendor of the Sonntagberg provide individuals with inner stability and comfort, underlining the collective efforts to preserve this vital cultural landmark.

Christoph Bazil highlighted the unique cooperation in Lower Austria for the preservation of cultural heritage, which is essential for the overall art and cultural policy that supports the community.

Abbot Petrus Pilsinger expressed particular anticipation for the high altar's restoration, emphasizing its theological significance as a central narrative of salvation history within the church.