In the first half of the 14th century, Merchlin, “the Jew of Pulkau”, purchased land in this town.
In 1338 a persecution which affected many Jewish communities in Austria and Bohemia started here. Jews were accused of desecrating the host. The Jews of Pulkau were plundered and murdered by the mob, and the violence against Jews spread. Duke Albrecht II turned to Pope Benedikt XII who ordered the Bishop of Passau to examine the case. In the meantime, Pulkau became a place for pilgrims who wished to see the “miracle” of the blood host. A special chapel was built in for the host in 1396, leading to the parish church of today.