The world-famous Altötting Madonna, the so-called "Black Madonna", is actually at the root of the most important Marian pilgrimage site in German-speaking countries. Every year about one million pilgrims come to Altötting to present their troubles and trials but also their thanks to Our Lady of Altötting at the Gnadenkapelle [Chapel of Mercy].
The 66 cm high statue of Our Lady of Altötting was carved in the early Gothic style in the Upper Rhine region around 1330 and is made from lime tree or coniferous wood. According to historical tradition, the Altötting Madonna came to Altötting via the Raitenhaslach Cistercian monastery.