St. Andrä Kirche (Saint Andrew Church), Graz

The Saint Andrew Church, located in the heart of Graz, stands as a significant symbol of history and culture. Dedicated to the Apostle Andrew, it serves the community of Graz-Saint Andrä within the Graz-Mitte deanery of the city's ecclesiastical structure. Its history is closely linked with the Dominican Order, which established the church in its current location after losing its original monastery church due to relocations within the city's parish structures.

The church's origins can be traced back to 1270, during the early Gothic period, indicating its long-standing spiritual presence. However, the current structure was built between 1616 and 1627, and designed by Archangelo Carlone, marking a notable architectural transition. During this time, the church expanded to accommodate a growing congregation, including the addition of a monastery building to its south, which remained until Emperor Joseph II's secular reforms in 1783.

In the 18th century, the church underwent a Baroque transformation, followed by a Neo-Renaissance renovation in 1876 by August Ortwein. These changes reflect the diverse stylistic influences that have shaped the church over the centuries. Notably, the church was served by former bishop Johann Weber from 1962 to 1969, adding to its historical significance.

The interior of Saint Andrew Church has undergone several redesigns, with the latest occurring in 1981 and 1982. It features a three-aisled staggered hall church, with notable elements such as a cross chapel from 1670 and a Saint Andrew's chapel from 1717. The dedication to Saint Andrew is emphasized by the depiction of his martyrdom on the high altar, placed there in 1838. Additionally, the church houses artwork by the Styrian Baroque painter Hans Adam Weissenkircher and an organ crafted by Matthäus Mauracher in 1884, contributing to its rich artistic heritage.

In 2010, Gustav Troger's "Gegen War" project further enhanced the church's vibrancy, solidifying its role as a dynamic space for cultural and spiritual exploration in Graz. This ongoing integration of art and faith makes Saint Andrew Church not only a place of worship but also a living gallery that reflects the evolving cultural dialogue of its time.