Melk Abbey on the banks of the Danube River.

Visitors are not allowed to take photos inside the Melk Abbey, so I usually refrain from doing so out of respect. The most beautiful parts here are the library and the golden church. The Melk Abbey sits atop a mountain, overlooking the Danube River. This Benedictine monastery stands solemnly amidst the beautiful scenery of the region. Since the 12th century, the Melk Abbey established a theological school and built a library. The library houses over 100,000 medieval manuscripts, all of which are priceless treasures. It is the essence of the Melk Abbey and one of the ten most beautiful libraries in the world. The monastery is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, and the magnificent view of the Danube River can be seen from the platform of the monastery. The Melk Abbey was founded in 1089. The breathtaking Baroque architecture was built from 1702 to 1736, featuring exquisite murals. The library houses countless medieval manuscripts. Due to its reputation and academic value, Melk Abbey was spared during the mass dissolution of Austrian monasteries by Joseph II from 1780 to 1790, and escaped the destruction of the Napoleonic Wars. In 1938, after the annexation of Austria by Germany, most of the school and monastery were nationalized by the Nazis. Visitors can reach the rooftop of the monastery after touring inside, where they can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, including rivers, bridges, and fairy tale-like rooftops, from all directions.