Short info:
- What is special about this church? The architectural feature of the young church lies in its clear geometric form and the use of modern materials such as concrete, steel and glass. The golden dome can be seen from afar.
- Where is it located? At the edge of the Steinhofgrund, Baumgartnerhöhe 1, 1140 Vienna-Penzing
- When is it open and how much does admission cost? Closed in winter (Nov to mid-March)! You can find the opening hours and prices here. Admission is about 5€.
- How much time should you plan for a visit? 30 minutes
The Otto Wagner Church in Vienna is a well-known architectural masterpiece and an important religious and cultural monument. The church was designed by Austrian architect Otto Wagner and is an outstanding example of Viennese Modernism architecture. The church was built between 1904 and 1911 and is part of the Steinhof complex, a group of buildings built as a psychiatric hospital and sanatorium for the mentally ill.
The design concept of the Otto Wagner Church
The concept is based on a combination of traditional and modern elements. Wagner wanted to create a church that was both functional and aesthetically pleasing while meeting the demands of modern church building. The architectural feature of the Otto Wagner Church lies in its clear geometric shape and the use of modern materials such as concrete, steel and glass. The church is an example of Viennese modern architecture and is regarded as a pioneer of modern church building.
The materials and the lighting concept of the church
Concrete, steel and glass were primarily used for the construction of the Otto Wagner Church. The use of these modern materials was unusual in church architecture at the time and reflects Otto Wagner’s innovative approaches. The windows and the lighting concept of the Otto Wagner Church are also remarkable. The large windows and the translucent walls create a light and airy atmosphere inside. The stained glass windows were designed by Koloman Moser and are an important part of the overall composition of the church.
The golden dome of the Otto Wagner Church is one of its most distinctive features. The dome is covered with 8,000 fire-gilded copper plates and crowned by a monumental gilded cross.
The importance of the Otto Wagner Church for Vienna
The church is now an important religious and cultural monument in Vienna. It is used for religious services as well as cultural events and is a popular destination for tourists and architecture lovers. The church is a symbol of Vienna’s cultural and intellectual heyday at the beginning of the 20th century and shows the innovative approaches of Viennese Modernism.
Sightseeing and events in the church
The church is open to the public. Visitors can tour the church and attend services or other events. Concerts, exhibitions and other cultural events are regularly held in the church. These events provide visitors with an opportunity to experience and enjoy the architecture and art of the church.
Attention: the church is closed in winter! Here are the opening hours.
Conclusion
The Otto Wagner Church is an important work of Austrian art and architecture history and an important religious and cultural monument in Vienna. It is best to combine a visit with the Steinhofgrund recreation area.