Joseph Mohr – Poet of "Silent Night! Holy Night!"
Parish Vicar and Social Reformer in Wagrain
His poem became the most famous, most devout Christmas song the world has seen. The poet and parish vicar lived in Wagrain and was dedicated to the plight of the poor.
"Silent Night! Holy Night!" – This song from Austria touches and moves people around the world. Its simplicity and unaffected beauty make it the most harmonious musical accompaniment to Christmas festivities. The text of this early world hit was penned by Joseph Mohr in the form of a poem. He spent many years of his life working in Wagrain as a priest and caregiver.
Silent Night – the Christmas song from the SalzburgerLand
Mohr was born in Salzburg in 1792 in very impoverished conditions, rising to the priesthood in 1815. He wrote the poem “Silent Night! Holy Night!” in 1816, though it was not until two years later that he asked his friend, Franz Xaver Gruber, to set it to music. The midnight mass held in Oberndorf bei Salzburg on Christmas Eve 1818 is held to be the world premiere of this ever-so-magical Christmas song from Austria.
Joseph Mohr Commemorations in Wagrain:
- Joseph Mohr exhibition at the Waggerl Museum
- Joseph Mohr grave
- Joseph Mohr school
- "Silent Night Wagrain" – elementary-school children sing Christmas songs
- "Silent Night Wagrain" – Advent choral concert
- Traditional Joseph Mohr Memorial Singing (26.12.)
Receiving a post as a priest, Joseph Mohr came to Wagrain in 1837. His own personal experiences had made him accutely aware of the pains of poverty, causing him to concern himself with the needy of the Wagrain region. He was responsible for the building of an elementary school, also ensuring that children from poorer families were able to study there as well. Joseph Mohr died in Wagrain on December 4, 1848, where he still lies buried to this day.
Walk in the footsteps of Joseph Mohr as you take the Culture Walk in Wagrain. This is a great opportunity for you to select a magical Advent package or request a no-obligation enquiry for your holiday in Austria.
