Church of the Holy Ghost

Set on the left bank of the Passer River, just outside Merano’s historic center, the Hospital Church of the Holy Spirit stands as a quiet monument to medieval compassion and Gothic artistry. Founded in 1271 by Count Meinhard II of Tyrol and his wife Elisabeth of Bavaria, the church – together with the adjoining hospital – once offered shelter and care to the poor, the sick, and passing pilgrims. The original church was destroyed in 1419 by a catastrophic flood caused by the sudden outburst of Kummersee – a mountain lake whose name translates to “Lake of Sorrow”, reflecting the devastation it brought through repeated floods. The lake had formed in 1401 in the upper Passeiertal Valley due to a landslide and triggered eight major floods over the years before it eventually dried up in 1774.
The reconstruction of the Hospital Church was carried out under the rule of Duke Sigismund of Austria, known as "Rich in Coin", and the new building was consecrated in 1483. Today, it ranks among the most important examples of late Gothic architecture in South Tyrol and has been a protected monument since 1949. Architecturally, the church captivates with its rare three-aisled hall design and a decagonal chancel that spans the full width of the building – an architectural feature seldom seen in the region. The main portal is adorned with a tympanum depicting the Holy Trinity, flanked by sculptures of the church’s founders.
Inside, visitors will find a wealth of artistic treasures: a Baroque Pentecost altar by Franz Xaver Pendl, flanked by late Gothic winged reliefs by Jörg Lederer. The Stations of the Cross, executed in the Flemish style, were painted by Benedikt Schinle. On the southern exterior wall, a well-preserved fresco of the Crucifixion by Ambrosius Gander (1450) bears witness to the building’s long-standing devotional role.
More than a sacred space, the Hospital Church is a historical time capsule – offering insight into Merano’s medieval healthcare, the impact of natural disasters, and the resilience of its citizens. It is a must-visit for anyone with an interest in history, art, or architecture.
Masses (in Italian only) Weekdays: 8:30 a.m. Holiday eves: 6:30 p.m. Holidays: 11:00 a.m.

At Merano train station take either the bus no. 1 or bus no. 4, get off at the Elisabeth Park stop at via Cavour and, here you are, right in front of the church.

From the city centre (Piazza Teatro) take the cycle path passing the Merano Therme Baths and the Ponte della Posta bridge.

Bicycle parking spaces are located opposite the St. Josef Clinic at Marconi Park. Take care not to park bicycles and e-scooters carelessly. They can pose a danger to blind and visually diabled people, as they create obstacles to safely walking along paths and finding entrances. People in wheelchairs and parents with pushchairs can also be hindered by carelessly parked bicycles. Please use the designated bicycle parking spaces. 

The St. Josef Parking garage is located in the close area and has wide and comfortable parking spaces. You can use the ‘Car Park Finder’ app to view the available spaces in real time.

The right behaviour and good manners make visiting cultural sites more enjoyable for everyone and show your respect for art, culture, and history.

• Photography is sometimes allowed, sometimes not. Check the signs.
• Silent phones and quiet voices make for a better experience – for you and everyone else. This might be tricky in groups, but it’s worth the effort.
• Uneven floors and narrow stairs can sometimes make things tricky. Take your time and stay safe.
• Accessibility matters: Not all cultural sites are fully accessible, but where they are, give priority to those who need it. It’s a matter of dignity – for them and for you.
• Pets are best left outside unless otherwise allowed, as they’re not usually permitted inside cultural spaces.
• Check emergency exits and evacuation plans– just in case. If there’s an emergency, stay calm, follow the signs, and head to the assembly point outside.

Most of this might seem obvious – and it is! But a little reminder never hurts. By being calm, mindful, and respectful, you’re making a big difference – for yourself, your surroundings, and future generations.