Pettnau: Church Art and Historic Architecture

Pettnau can be considered for travel planning through several distinct themes: church art in Oberpettnau and Leiblfing, historic architecture at the Mellaunerhof, and the route to the Einsiedel. The surrounding area also offers nature for walks, hikes and explorations.

Church Art in Oberpettnau and Leiblfing

The branch church in Oberpettnau was built in 1412 and has ceiling and altar paintings by Josef Anton Zoller. Some of its Baroque figures are by Johann Perger.

The parish church of St. George in Leiblfing adds another perspective on architectural history. It is a Romanesque building; a renovation is said to have taken place as early as 1090. The tower was built in 1710 and combines a bulbous dome with a slender spire. The dates refer to different events: 1090 is the possible date of a renovation, while 1710 marks the construction of the tower. The churches each have distinct features: Oberpettnau with its paintings and Baroque figures, and Leiblfing with its Romanesque architecture and tower design.

The Mellaunerhof: Architectural History and a Former Route

The listed Mellaunerhof is a historic inn in Pettnau; it has operated as an inn since around 1600, with no significant interruptions. Its late Gothic entrance portal is framed with breccia. The facade was given a Baroque makeover and decorated with paintings in the 20th century. The “Old Smokehouse” in the Mellaunerhof extends from the ground floor to the attic. The building’s location is also part of its history: the Mellaunerhof stands at a former ferry crossing over the Inn and on a historic main route through the Inn Valley.

The Route to the Einsiedel

A path on Pettnau’s northern slope leads to the so-called Einsiedel. The route includes Stations of the Cross by Johann Obrleitner; at the Einsiedel stands a chapel dedicated to “our Lord in Misery.” This extends the cultural perspective beyond the churches to a route with religious stations and a chapel at a named location. Anyone including architectural history and religious art in their travel plans can consider this route alongside the churches in Oberpettnau and Leiblfing.

Nature and Getting There

The area around Pettnau offers nature for walks, hikes and explorations. The Seefeld ski area is also located nearby. If you are planning winter sports, check seasonal facilities before your trip.

For getting there, the municipality lists bus stops in Oberpettnau at Sauplatzl and by the Mellaunerhof inn, in Unterpettnau at the municipal office, and in Leiblfing. The nearest rail connection is Hatting stop, about 1 km from Leiblfing. Since the bus stops are associated with different locations, check the specific stop and current services when planning your journey.

Discover more destinations: Fritzens, Aldrans, Sankt Jodock Am Brenner, Reith Bei Seefeld, Sistrans, Thaur, Sankt Sigmund Im Sellrain, Birgitz.

For the broader travel overview: Innsbruck-Land.