Quick Info:
- What is the Franziskanerkirche? The Franziskanerkirche, one of the oldest churches in Salzburg, has been serving as the convent church of the Franciscans since 1592.
- Where is it located? Sigmund-Haffner-Gasse 13, 5020 Salzburg
- What can you see there? A beautiful high altar and several choir chapels
- What are the opening hours? Daily from 6:45 AM to 7:45 PM; No visiting during religious services!
- How much is the admission fee? Free
- How much time should I plan? 20 minutes
Name of the church
The original name of the old parish church was “Unsere Liebe Frau” (Our Lady). In 1592, the church was handed over to the Franciscan order, which led to a change in its name, similar to the Capuchins who arrived in Salzburg around the same time.
History
The history of the Franziskanerkirche in Salzburg dates back to ancient times. Originally built as the “Church of Our Lady,” it underwent restoration in the first half of the 8th century under Abbot-Bishop Virgil and served as a baptismal and synodal church. Over the centuries, it changed ownership between various monastic orders and was eventually given to the Franciscans in 1592. The current church, with its origins dating back to the 12th century, underwent extensive renovations in the 15th century under the guidance of Master Hans von Burghausen. Interestingly, in the 18th century, Archbishop Colloredo planned to demolish the church, which he deemed “unattractive,” in favor of a Roman rotunda. However, this plan was abandoned for various reasons, and the Franziskanerkirche was preserved.
Architecture
The Franziskanerkirche in Salzburg combines various architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque. It’s west facade, originally from the 13th century, was transformed into the Baroque style in the 18th century. The interior features a three-bay nave and six-bay side aisles with various vaults. The Gothic hall choir, elevated two steps above the Romanesque floor level, provides a striking contrast, with its splendid star rib vault.
It’s high altar, designed by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach, incorporates the Madonna and Child from the original Gothic winged altarpiece by Michael Pacher. The church boasts 9 choir chapels and three organs, including the Marien-Orgel built in 1989 by the Metzler organ-building company. This architectural masterpiece reflects the historical evolution of church architecture.