St. Peter and Paul Church

The primary parish church in Mayrhofen is the Parish Church of Our Lady (Kath. Pfarrkirche Unserer Lieben Frau), rather than a church dedicated to St. Peter and Paul. Located in the heart of the Zillertal Valley in Tyrol, this church serves as a central religious and historical landmark for the community. The building has a complex history, with origins dating back to the 14th century. It was completely rebuilt between 1500 and 1511 by master builder Lienhart Plutaur following a fire.

After another fire in 1589–1590, the nave was replaced with a Baroque structure designed by Hans Holzmeister. This era introduced significant artistic elements, including 14 Crucifixion paintings by Joseph Michael Schmutzer and a high altar by Veit Steiner. In the mid-20th century, the original building was demolished and reconstructed as an octagonal central hall according to plans by Clemens Holzmeister. Further renovations occurred between 2011 and 2012, preserving its status as a protected monument.

The current structure features an octagonal central room connected to a Gothic choir with a 5/8 closure. A bell tower stands north of the choir, characterized by a pointed roof and a round keystone on the ground floor. The church is part of the Diocese of Salzburg and was elevated to parish church status in 1858.

Visitors to Mayrhofen can explore the exterior of the church, which reflects the architectural evolution of the region. The interior offers a glimpse into the local religious heritage, combining Gothic and Baroque elements with modern reconstruction. It is an active place of worship, hosting regular masses and services. For those interested in the history of the Zillertal, the church provides valuable context regarding the town’s development and artistic traditions. It is advisable to check current opening hours for interior access, as they may vary depending on service times.