Stille-Nacht-Museum Hallein

Silent Night Museum Hallein is dedicated to the life and works of composer Franz Xaver Gruber. Together with Joseph Mohr, Gruber created the Christmas song “Silent Night” in the year 1818.

Journey into the past

This handicapped-accessible museum is located in the former sexton’s and choirmaster’s house, where Franz Xaver Gruber lived and worked for 28 years. Original manuscripts, documents and furniture recount the life of this teacher and composer. Located right across from the museum is the place that was the focus of many of Gruber’s activities, Hallein Parish Church.

The significance of the song

In addition to Gruber’s life, the museum is also dedicated to how the song “Silent Night” came to be written and become so incredibly popular worldwide. Lying in front of his former home is the composer’s grave, which is lovingly tended throughout the year. Annually on 24 December at 5 PM, people from around the globe gather here to attend an event known as “Singing at the Gruber Grave”. Also participating in this event are the Hallein Choral Society (established in 1849 at the initiative of Franz Gruber, son of F. X. Gruber) along with the Hallein ceremonial militia. Definitely a highlight of Christmastime in Hallein!