Franz Xaver Gruber Friedensweg (Peace Path)

Born and bred in Hochburg, Franz Xaver Gruber composed the popular Christmas hymn "Silent Night" (original: "Stille Nacht"). Today, this hymn is sung all around the world. People travel throughout their lives. Especially today, many people deliberately set off "on the path".

A path that combines Nature and Art in a unique way. Various sculptures in the stunning landscapes of Hochburg are dotted along a circular trail taking approx. one hour to walk. They were crafted by renowned sculptor Hubert J. Flörl.

Each of these sculptures symbolises a continent, supported by a bronze-cast angel wing. Each continent bears a verse of the hymn "Silent Night". Information about Franz Xaver Gruber and his hymn can be found on the back. Information panels along the trail describe important places in the life of the young Franz Xaver Gruber, for example the house where he was born, the font, the lyceum where he first received organ lessons.

Past the lovingly restored Bundwerkstadel, the path continues to the Gothic parish church containing the Franz Xaver Gruber memorial organ. After all the impressions afforded by this themed path composition blending modernity and tradition, one comes to the final striking sculpture: Gruber and Mohr reciting "Silent Night" to Mary and the baby Jesus.