The treasury of St Mary's Cathedral Linz
Digitally opened
Kept in locked safes, the treasury of St Mary's Cathedral Linz has, until now, remained hidden from public view. Through the digitisation of these precious objects, interested visitors now have the opportunity to explore these masterfully crafted pieces in exceptional detail and from every angle. These treasures, which enrich the sacred heritage of the cathedral far beyond its architecture, are being made accessible for the first time.
Liturgical and Historical Treasures
The treasury comprises a wide variety of valuable items that once serve both liturgical and symbolic purposes. Among them are magnificent chalices – many older than the cathedral itself – and delicate cruets used in the celebration of the Mass. Also included are ornately decorated bishop's croziers, also known as pastorals. These exquisite objects were not only used in religious rites but also reflect the craftsmanship and cultural richness of their time.
A particular highlight of the collection is the group of intricately designed monstrances. These sacred vessels, used to display the Eucharist during adoration, stand out for their delicate workmanship and refined aesthetic.
Beyond liturgical items, the treasury also contains objects of exceptional historical and artistic significance not intended for religious use. One such example is the crown of the Immaculata statue, a gift from Pope Leo XIII, which once adorned the Madonna in the cathedral's Votive Chapel. Today, a replica crowns the statue, while the original remains safely stored in one of the cathedral's safes.
A Key with Meaning
Another remarkable piece in the treasury is the so-called Bluemelhuber Cathedral Key, a masterpiece of steel engraving crafted for the consecration of St Mary's Cathedral Linz in 1924. Created by Michael Bluemelhuber from a 2-kilogram block of steel, the key is notable for its intricate design and religious symbolism. The quatrefoil-shaped handle is decorated with five six-pointed stars and stylised river motifs. Within the handle, one finds a depiction of the Holy Spirit as a dove, surrounded by rays of light and flanked by two angels in veneration of the mystery of the Immaculate Conception.
A lily with seven blossoms on the shaft symbolises Mary's immaculate purity. Along the stem of the key winds a rose motif accompanied by the Latin inscription: "+ APERIT ET NEMO CLAVDIT + CLAVDIT ET NEMO APERIT +" These words, drawn from the Book of Revelation (3:7) and the Book of Isaiah (22:22), translate as: "He opens and no one shuts; He shuts and no one opens."
Digital Insights
Through digital preservation, everyone now has access to the cathedral's artistic treasures. What was once kept in secure safes can now be viewed in high-resolution, richly detailed imagery. This digital archive makes it possible to experience the craftsmanship and powerful symbolism of these works in extraordinary depth, opening the doors to a cultural heritage that was previously available only to a select few.