Martinskirche (St. Martin's Church), Linz

This is the oldest original church still around in Austria, first mentioned in a "deed of gift" also involving Linz Castle. The deed was granted by Charlemagne, also known as Charles the Great, in 799. The remains of a rectangular building reaching into the nave most likely dates from 788 in the Agilofingian period. More reconstruction took place by the Carolingians after 788.

The main structure of the church was built using debris salvaged from the old Roman structures. The building was redesigned in the 11th century as a bay church. At that time the pillar arches were filled in. Romanesque and Gothic arches date from more recent alterations.

Inside are Roman gravestones from the 3rd century and a furnace from the same time period which is still usable. Gothic windows and portals were added and a presbytery built in the middle ages. In the 15th century frescoes of the Virgin Mary were painted on the north wall. There is also a copy of a painting of Christ. The original is in Lucca, Italy.

Visitors may enter the church only with a guide. Tours are twice a week, on Wednesdays and Sundays. If you are not lucky enough to come on Wednesday or Sunday, you can peek into the church through a glass door.