Old Town Churches Walking Tour (Self Guided), Vienna

While remarkable architecture is commonplace in Vienna, the majestic Saint Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom) is absolutely unmistakable. A central figure in Vienna’s spiritual and architectural landscape, it was constructed on the remnants of two earlier churches, with the first consecrated in 1147. The cathedral now exhibits a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, primarily developed under Duke Rudolf IV in the mid-14th century.

The building extends over 107 meters in length and 40 meters in width, with its tallest point, the South Tower (affectionately referred to as "Steffl" – a diminutive form of "Stephen"), reaching 136 meters. This tower, completed in 1433 after 65 years of construction, served crucial defensive roles during the sieges of Vienna and housed a watchman’s apartment until 1955. Contrastingly, the North Tower remains unfinished, capped at 68 meters with a Renaissance dome since 1578.

Saint Stephen’s notable features include its vibrant, tiled roof adorned with 230,000 glazed tiles portraying symbols like the Habsburg double-headed eagle and the coats of arms of Vienna and Austria. Despite severe damage during a 1945 fire, the roof was meticulously restored, substituting the original wood with 600 metric tons of steel, enhancing its resilience and self-cleaning capability.

The cathedral houses an impressive array of bells, including Pummerin, the second-largest swinging bell in Europe, cast from captured Turkish cannons in 1711 and recast in 1951 after being destroyed. This bell, alongside others in the South Tower and the Roman Tower, marks significant religious ceremonies and daily prayers.

Saint Stephen's also harbors deep connections with notable composers like Ludwig van Beethoven, who recognized his complete deafness here, Joseph Haydn, who used to sing at Saint Stephen's as a choir boy, Johann Strauss, who married twice within these walls, and Mozart, for whom the cathedral served as both his parish church and the site of his marriage and funeral.

The interior is adorned with 18 altars, including the High Altar and the Vienna New Town (Wiener Neustadt) Altar, and features the Maria Pötsch Icon, a revered Byzantine-style depiction of Saint Mary with Jesus, credited with miraculous powers.

Saint Stephen's houses several chapels, each with unique significance. The Chapel of the Cross contains the burial of Prince Eugene of Savoy and was the site of Mozart's funeral. Saint Valentine's Chapel holds numerous relics, including Saint Valentine's bones. The cathedral also encompasses historic tombs, catacombs, and crypts, storing the remains of over 11,000 people and significant Habsburg dynasty members.

Tip:
Be sure to make a loop around the structure as there are many interesting details still visible on the outside walls.

The Maltese Church, also known as the Malteserkirche, is a Gothic church located on Kärntner Straße in Vienna. It has historical ties to the Knights Hospitaller. The earliest reference to a church at this location dates back to 1217 when it was referred to as a "House of the Prueder of the Order of Saint John." This establishment served as a commandry to provide care and support for crusaders.

The existing church building was constructed during the mid-15th century. In the 17th century, it gained popularity as a favored preaching location for Abraham a Sancta Clara.

During the Baroque era, the church underwent renovations to align with contemporary architectural preferences. Further alterations took place in 1806. In the 19th century, stained glass windows were added to the Kommendenhaus in 1839 and various parts of the church in 1857.

Following financial difficulties faced by the Order after the First World War, the church had to be sold in 1933, along with the Johanneshof. Subsequently, the church was repurposed while maintaining its historical significance through preservation orders. In 1960, it was reacquired and underwent a phased restoration process, culminating in a comprehensive restoration in 1998.

One notable feature of the church is its high altarpiece, which was painted by Johann Georg Schmidt in 1730.

The Kapuzinerkirche, commonly known as the Capuchin Church, serves as both a religious site and a monastery for the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin. Its construction commenced in the early 17th century, yet it faced a halt due to the disruptions caused by the 30 Years War. Eventually completed in 1632, this church is renowned for housing a series of tombs beneath its structure, most notably those belonging to members of the Habsburg dynasty. Notably, Otto von Habsburg, the last Habsburg to be laid to rest here, passed away in July 2011.

This church possesses a unique architectural feature, lacking aisles, which adds to its overall charm through its simplicity. Although the majority of tourists visit primarily to explore the Imperial Crypt, it's essential to recognize the historical significance of the church itself. It has endured the test of time, with minimal damage incurred from wars and other political upheavals.

The Imperial Crypt serves as the final resting place for 18 Empresses and 12 Emperors, with approximately 120 other aristocrats also finding their eternal abode here. Some of the tombs are particularly opulent, especially those dedicated to the parents of Marie Antoinette. Guided tours are available to allow visitors to explore both the church and the crypt. Moreover, the church hosts the extraordinary form of the Roman rite daily. While it may not be the most extravagant church in Vienna, it is an absolute must-visit for anyone with an interest in history.

The Augustinerkirche, also known as the Augustinian Church, was originally constructed to serve the royal court of the Habsburg dynasty. It was built in 1339, initially situated within the palace grounds. Over time, as the palace expanded, the church became integrated into the Hofburg complex. Notably, the church boasts an exquisite steeple that distinguishes it from the rest of the Hofburg.

This church also includes a cloister intended for Augustinian friars. Presently, it is tended to by six monks who cater to the spiritual needs of the local congregation. Throughout its history, this church has been the venue for numerous royal events, including the marriage of Archduchess Marie-Louise to Napoleon Bonaparte in 1810. Interestingly, Napoleon himself did not attend the wedding, and it was conducted by proxy.

Upon entering the Gothic church, one is immediately struck by its austere yet captivating beauty. It features tall, slender windows and magnificent chandeliers. Of particular note is the cenotaph dedicated to Maria Christina of Austria, located near the rear entrance. This poignant memorial, sculpted in 1805, portrays the entire family entering a temple.

The church also houses several chapels, with two of them open to visitors on a limited basis. The Loreto chapel is notable for its collection of 54 silver urns containing the hearts of departed Habsburg rulers, which can be glimpsed through a windowed door. The physical remains of these rulers are entombed in the Kapuzinerkirche.

For those interested in visiting these chapels, the optimal time is after the Sunday mass. During the summer, the mass includes awe-inspiring organ music that resonates beautifully within this setting. It's advisable to arrive no later than 10:15 to secure a seat for the 11 am mass, as it tends to be very popular.

The Lutheran City Church, also known as Lutherische Stadtkirche Wien, has undergone significant transformations since its initial construction in 1582. Back then, it served as a Catholic monastery commissioned by Elisabeth of Austria. Following her widowhood, she resided in this monastery, and there is speculation that the church was constructed as an act of penance, possibly in response to the Saint Bartholomew's Day massacre.

During the religious turbulence of the 18th century, the church was abandoned. In 1783 the monastery was purchased and divided among the three new owners, the Lutheran Church, the Reformed Church and a private investor who used his portion to build a palace. At this time in Vienna’s history, Protestant churches were not allowed to have steeples or any exterior adornments that would denote that a church was there. The building was significantly altered during this time.

In 1876 the winds of religious fortunes again changed and Protestant churches could now look like a church. Significant modifications were again made to the building. WWII bombing caused significant damage to the Church and the building was again rebuilt with a new face. The latest renovations to the building occurred in the late 1980s with a return to the 1907 look.

Several features have survived all the remodeling and damage. Christ on the Cross is a copy of the van Dyke painting that is the altar piece. There are also marble plates that are relics from when the hearts of several leaders were buried here. The church has no aisles which makes it rather unique too. Located at Dorotheergasse 18, there are also other churches and sights to see within just a short walk.

The oldest building on Michaelerplatz, and the source of its name, Michaelerkirche was first built in the 13th century, though the Neoclassical facade, added in 1792, somewhat obscures this fact. The high polygonal Gothic bell tower from the 16th century may be seen from far away, having become one of the Inner City's symbols. Above the entrance, on top of the pediment, resting on Doric columns, stands a group with winged angels and Saint Michael slaying Lucifer (1725). These sculptural figures were executed by the Italian sculptor Lorenzo Mattielli, who also sculpted the Hercules figures at the Hofburg entrance, just opposite the church.

Inside, the church retains its plain Gothic origins, but sculptor sculptor Karl Georg Merville's "Fall of Angels" steals the show: a monumental stucco alabaster Rococo sculpture, tumbling from the ceiling above the high altar. The gilded pipe organ (1714) – Vienna's largest Baroque organ – is very fine; it was once played by the 17-year-old Joseph Haydn, who lived next door in a small attic room. The very first playing of Mozart's unfinished "Requiem" first took place here on December 10, 1791, in a requiem service for the composer. Just to the right of the church's entrance, you will find two dark reliefs commemorating said performance.

Off the north choir is the entrance to a huge crypt, discovered by U.S. soldiers in 1945, when they forced open its doors, which had been sealed for 150 years. Found lying undisturbed for centuries were hundreds of mummified former wealthy parishioners, clothed in their burial finery that was perfectly preserved by the rarefied air within.

Saint Peter's Church (Peterskirche) in Vienna is a Baroque Roman Catholic parish church, nestled among surrounding buildings which make it visible primarily from the front. The site has hosted several iterations of a church, with the earliest possibly being Vienna's oldest, tracing back to the early 4th century AD. Originally a Roman encampment, the location saw a Romanesque church established here by none other than King Charlemagne himself in 792. There's a plaque on the building's facade that tells the tale of Charlemagne's involvement, adding a touch of historical significance. Historical documents, however, first reference a church here in 1137.

By the late 12th century, this church became associated with a Catholic monastery (Schottenstift) founded in Vienna in 1155. After a fire in 1661, the building saw only minimal repairs until the devastation of the 1679-1680 plague. Emperor Leopold I, a member of the Fraternity of the Holy Trinity, then vowed to reconstruct it.

Construction of the new Baroque church began around 1701, drawing inspiration from Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome. Consecrated in 1733, this church was the first domed structure in Baroque Vienna, featuring a compact, oval interior that maximizes its limited space.

The exterior boasts a predominantly white and very light yellow color scheme. Two towers grace the building, defining its classic outside appearance. These towers exhibit a slightly inward curve, a design said to be inspired by the tent poles used by the Turks who invaded the region in the late 1600s.

The interior is rich with gold stucco and frescoes by Johann Michael Rottmayr, depicting scenes such as the Coronation of Our Lady. The high altar showcases the Healing of the Lame by Saint Peter and Saint John. The church also houses several relics in its side chapels, including martyrs from Roman catacombs presented in glass coffins.

From 1998 to 2004, Saint Peter's Church underwent significant renovations and today remains a cherished monument of Vienna's religious and architectural heritage.

Tip:
Each day, from 3 to 3:30 pm, you can listen to live organ music here for free (donations are welcome). Choir performances are also frequent, with for-fee events in the underground vaults.

Maria am Gestade (Mary at the Shore) stands as a venerable Gothic church within Vienna. It ranks among the city's oldest religious edifices, sharing this distinction with Saint Peter's Church and Saint Rupert's Church. Additionally, it represents a rare surviving specimen of Gothic architectural style. Situated in Vienna's Innere Stadt, specifically at Salvatorgasse 12, in proximity to the Donaukanal, this church traditionally served the needs of Danube river sailors. Its name harkens back to its original location on the Fluvial terrace of a Danube river branch prior to regulation efforts.

The church's most prominent feature is its towering open-work structure, rising to a height of 56 meters (about 180 feet). This Gothic marvel was constructed between 1419 and 1428, featuring intricate scroll-work. Its distinct appearance can be discerned from afar and is depicted in the earliest depictions of the city. The choir, whose construction commenced in 1330, contains two splendid examples of high Gothic panels. The church's medieval stained glass windows remain, with the nave's narrower design influenced by the Danube's course. Construction began in 1400, attributed to Duke Albrecht III.

Maria am Gestade boasts three porticoes adorned with reliefs and sculptures. The choir door exhibits depictions of the Virgin of Mercy and the Coronation of the Virgin, both dating back to around 1350. These can be observed on the Middle Portal, which features realistic representations of angels playing musical instruments. The main portal on the west facade features canopies with reliefs of Saint Johns (Baptist and Evangelist) from around 1410, reminiscent of Prague's Saint Vitus Cathedral. Additionally, the church has 20th-century sculptures and mosaic decorations.

Ruprechtskirche, also known as the Church of Saint Rupert, is believed to hold the distinction of being the oldest church in Vienna. While some recent debates have arisen challenging this claim, it is noteworthy for housing Vienna's most ancient stained glass window and the oldest set of bells. The church is dedicated to Saint Rupert of Salzburg, who is the patron saint of salt merchants in Vienna.

Traditionally, the church's origins date back to the early 8th century, though even this timeline has faced disputes. The earliest written mention of the church can be traced to around 1200, and in this document, it is described as Vienna's oldest church. Over the centuries, Ruprechtskirche has had a fascinating history, serving as a hub for the salt trade and even functioning as a place of confinement for prisoners.

The church has undergone several renovations, particularly following a devastating fire in 1276, during which the oldest surviving stained glass window was likely added. This window depicts the Madonna and Child alongside the Crucified Christ. As recently as the late 1990s, modifications and restorations have been carried out.

Ruprechtskirche is open to the public, welcoming visitors to explore its beautiful and historic sanctuary. While regular religious services are not held here, the venue hosts various events. Visitors are encouraged to enter, take a moment for reflection, wander through its corridors, and appreciate this valuable piece of history.

Why You Should Visit:
The stained-glass windows are stunning and the simplicity is a change from the baroque seen elsewhere.

Tip:
Don't miss the 'Alte Musik in Ruprecht' concerts that the church offers, featuring music from the Medieval to early Romantic periods played on original instruments by world-class artists.

The Heiligenkreuaerhof and Bernardikapelle is a collection of shops, apartment’s courtyards and one beautiful old church. This area may be a bit difficult to find, but it is worth the effort. This area was once home to merchants and the shops were outside of the protective city walls. Some of the basements date back to the 12th century although most of the visible parts of the buildings there now are considerably newer. The buildings were generally built in the mid 17th to mid 18th centuries.

Although the Bernadikapelle may be a bit understated from the outside, this little chapel is beautiful on the inside and is a very popular spot to have a wedding. The chapel is not open for public display, but tours are regularly given. Be sure to sign up for the tour as the chapel is an excellent example of Baroque furnishings at its best.

The area is sometimes called “Vienna’s oldest apartment block” and the name may make one disinclined to make the effort on a busy vacation to visit this spot. However, the small shops here and the lovely chapel will not disappoint. It may well be one of the highlights of any trip.

The Jesuit Church, known as Jesuitenkirche, stands proudly on Dr. Ignaz Seipel-Platz in Vienna. This architectural gem was completed back in 1627 and stands as a remarkable example of Baroque design, albeit with a few unique features. Initially, the twin towers might strike you as somewhat unusual, but the overall structure comes together harmoniously. The ornate niches adorned with statues on the building are simply exquisite. Originally, the church was dedicated to Saint Loyola and Saint Francis Xavier upon its construction. However, in 1703, it underwent a rededication ceremony in honor of the Assumption of Mary.

Stepping inside the Jesuitenkirche is a treat for the eyes and certainly worth a visit. Make sure not to miss the breathtaking trompe l’oeil dome painted on the barrel ceiling, skillfully designed to mimic a true dome. Emperor Leopold I commissioned this masterpiece, which was executed by the talented artist Andrea Pozzo, responsible for the frescoes throughout the building.

In the mid-1400s, Vienna played a significant role in European academia, but by the late 1500s, the area had seen a decline in student population due to ongoing conflicts. The university joined forces with the Jesuits in 1623, leading to the creation of this magnificent church. The history of the Jesuits in Austria has had its ups and downs, but their architectural legacy endures once more in this splendid structure.

The Dominican Church, also known as the Church of Saint Maria Rotunda in German (Dominikanerkirche), stands as an early Baroque parish church and minor basilica located in Vienna, Austria's historic center. It's worth noting that this is the third church constructed on this very site over time.

The initial church was established in 1237 by the newly arrived Dominicans, following the land allocation in 1225-1226 by Duke Leopold VI. Between 1240 and 1270, the church underwent enlargement, including the addition of a new choir in 1273. Subsequently, a series of fires led to the construction of a new Gothic church between 1283 and 1302. Further expansion occurred between 1458 and 1474, resulting in a church with a nave consisting of five cross vaults and two aisles.

Unfortunately, the church endured significant damage during the first siege of Vienna by the Turkish army in 1529, resulting in the demolition of the choir and partial dismantling of the nave. Over the following years, the building gradually fell into disrepair.

Due to the Counter-Reformation's influence, a new church was built in Vienna in 1631, following a design by Jacopo Tencala. Master builders Spacio, Biasino, and Canevale introduced Italian Baroque style. Emperor Ferdinand II laid the first stone on May 29, 1631, and the church was consecrated on October 1, 1634, with final touches added in 1674. It became a minor basilica in 1927, known as "Rosary Basilica ad S. Mariam Rotundam."

The Franziskanerkirche, also referred to as the Church of Saint Jerome or the Franciscan Church in Vienna, boasts an intriguing blend of architectural styles. The exterior of this splendid church showcases Renaissance design, while the interior is a splendid example of pure Baroque aesthetics. This unique combination makes it a captivating destination for visitors. Unlike many tourist-heavy areas, the church is located in a quieter locale, surrounded by charming small shops and cozy cafes that enhance the overall experience.

The current church was constructed in the early 1600s, replacing a previous church that had been demolished. Both places of worship were dedicated to Saint Hieronymus, and an interesting statue of him adorns the entrance, giving visitors a glimpse of the Baroque opulence that awaits inside.

Once inside, amid the opulent golden and marble decor, you'll find Vienna's oldest known organ, the Wöckherlorgel, dating back to around 1640. The church's magnificent high altar, crafted by an Italian artist during the same period, adds to its grandeur. Although the majority of the church's construction predates the late 18th century, the tomb of Father Peter Pavlicek is a more recent addition. Father Pavlicek, an Austrian Franciscan priest, organized a Rosary crusade following World War II, urging Austrians to daily recite the Rosary until the Russian occupation of the country ended. He passed away in 1982, and his final resting place can be found within the church.