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Wilten is situated at the southern extremity of the city centre. The main road over the Brenner Pass (on the way to Bergiesel) goes through Wilten and presents an imposing view for motorists approaching Innsbruck from the south. You can see two churches, situated opposite each other in Leopoldstrasse in Wilten, the Stift Wilten and the Wiltener Basilika, a splendid example of baroque architecture dating back to 1120 (maybe the most impressive church of Innsbruck in Rokoko style). According to the legend even Roman Soldiers were attracted to the Basilika Wilten by the fame of the Madonna Painting. The Basilika Wilten was taken over by the Premonstratensian order in around 1140. The first church on this site was built around 1259 and was visited by large numbers of people. When the original church was in a devastated state it was demolished and was rebuilt between 1751 and 1756 in a rococo style with twin towers. The design of the new church was entrusted to Josef Stapf, one of the most famous church architects of his time. The interior of the Basilika Wilten is a kaleidoscope of soft colors, mixed with gold and lavish rococo plasterwork. The elaborate ceiling murals are by Matthaus Gunther and depicts scenes from the life of the holy Virgin Mary. The sandstone figure depicting "Our Lady Under the Four Columns" on the high altar had been the subject of pilgrimage since the Middle Ages. Entrance to the Basilika Wilten is free but free-will donations to the church are accepted. No visits are accpted during worship. |