Villach Parish Tower

Villach Parish Tower: The highest church tower in Carinthia

The Villach parish tower, with a height of 94 meters, is not only the highest church building in Carinthia, but also an important historical landmark of the city Villach. Already in the Middle Ages, the tower impressed its contemporaries, as the Italian chronicler Paolo Santonino 1486, who considered it to be larger than the towers of Venice. The lower part of the tower dates back to the Middle Ages, but earthquakes and fires have caused the tower to be rebuilt several times. It received its current height and shape in 1847.

Short info:

How high is the tower? 94m

Are you allowed to go up? Yes, but only on foot via 239 stairs

Is there an admission charge? Yes, but only 2.5€. Here you can find all tariffs

opening hours? May, June, Sept, Oct: Mon-Sat 10:00-16:30h/ July, Aug: Mon-Sat 10:00-18:00h, closed on Sundays and public holidays as well as in winter

Is the climb worth it? Yes, you have a wonderful view over Villach and the surrounding area

A fascinating climb

For visitors, the Villach parish tower It has been accessible since 1993. It is connected to the church of St. Jakob via a vaulted porch, but the tower is located a little way away from it. The ascent to the viewing platform is via 239 stairs and offers some interesting stops along the way. The lower part up to the gallery has 48 steps, but anyone who wants to climb the entire height has to go further up, past a short one-way section, which is necessary due to the narrowness of the path.

The climb is definitely worth it: Once you reach the top, you will be treated to a beautiful view above Villach and the surrounding landscape. In good weather, the view to the south extends to the Karawanks and along the Drautal even to the Hohe Tauern about 70 km away. Nearby mountains such as the Dobratsch, the Gerlitzen or the Mittagskogel rise majestically before you.

Historical building with significance

The Villach parish tower has undergone many reconstructions over the centuries, but has remained a prominent point in the city's history. It was originally built in the Middle Ages and played an important role in the cityscape of Villach. Fires and earthquakes repeatedly required repairs and reconstructions until it was finally completed in its current form in 1847. The tower is now owned by the parish of St. Jakob, which has, however, granted the city the right to use it as a viewing point.

For a low entrance fee of only 2,50 € you can explore this landmark and enjoy one of the most beautiful panoramic views over Villach. The tower is open from May to October, but only during the week; it is closed on Sundays and public holidays. The tower is also not accessible during the winter months.

So if you are looking for a sporting challenge and at the same time want to enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding nature, you should climb the Villach parish tower Don't miss it.

Villach parish tower