
Famous Pilgrimage Routes & Religious Sites in Vienna, Wien, Austria
1. St. Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom)
Gothic masterpiece housing the cathedral treasury; iconic twin towers and breathtaking views from the top.
- Iconic Architecture: One of the most recognizable symbols of Vienna.
- Historical Artifacts: Home to numerous religious relics and artworks.
- Panoramic Views: Tower visits offer stunning views over Vienna.
2. Augustinerkirche
Baroque church with an enchanting Augustinian monastery; home to the famous 'Vienna Boys Choir'.
- Historic Monastery: Unique blend of Baroque architecture and tranquil monastery grounds.
- World-Renowned Choir: Opportunity to witness the talented Vienna Boys Choir in concert.
- Hidden Courtyards: Explore the charming inner courtyards tucked away from the bustling city.
3. Karlskirche
Awe-inspiring baroque church with unique sculptures of the saints Cosmas and Damian.
- Impressive Sculptures: Large statues of Cosmas and Damian on the façade are a sight to behold.
- Baroque Architecture: An outstanding example of Austrian Baroque architecture.
- Museum of Baroque Art: The church houses a museum dedicated to the art of the baroque period.
4. Maria am Gestade
Small but significant Romanesque chapel nestled on the Danube Canal; boasts a beautiful fresco of the Madonna and Child.
- Romanesque Architecture: One of the oldest buildings in Vienna with Romanesque architecture.
- Historic Significance: Built in the early 12th century, it showcases the city's rich history.
- Fresco of the Madonna: A stunning fresco adorns the inner walls of the chapel.
5. Mariahilf Basilika
Large Baroque church dedicated to Mary, Mother of God; houses the famous Black Madonna statue.
- Baroque Architecture: Features a stunning cupola and ornate interior decorations.
- Black Madonna Statue: The famous statue is a popular pilgrimage site for Catholics.
- Historical Importance: Originally built in the late 17th century to celebrate the end of the plague epidemic.
6. Melk Abbey
Impressive Benedictine monastery with a stunning Baroque palace; offers guided tours and a beautiful library.
- Baroque Architecture: The abbey boasts one of the most impressive examples of Baroque architecture in Austria.
- Guided Tours: Learn about the history and daily life of the monks through guided tours.
- Stunning Library: Marvel at the beautiful library with over 80,000 books and manuscripts.
7. Schottenstift
Monastery complex including a church, museum, and school; houses the famous St. Rupert's Chapel.
- Historic Monastery: The monastery was founded in 1155 and has been a vital part of Vienna ever since.
- St. Rupert's Chapel: Features beautiful frescoes by Austrian artists.
- Schottenstift Museum: Discover the monastery's rich history through exhibitions and artifacts.
8. Votive Church (Wienerdome)
Imposing Neo-Gothic church built to give thanks for the end of the cholera epidemic in 1873.
- Neo-Gothic Architecture: An impressive example of Neo-Gothic architecture.
- Historical Significance: Constructed as a votive offering for the end of the cholera epidemic.
- Tower Climb: Enjoy panoramic views of Vienna from the top of the tower.
9. Capuchin Church (Kapuzinerkirche)
Small Baroque church housing the remains of Emperor Charles VI and his wife Empress Elizabeth.
- Historic Graves: Pay respects to the royal couple at their final resting place.
- Baroque Architecture: Features a beautiful fresco of St. Francis by Andrea Pozzo.
- Capuchin Monastery: The adjacent monastery is home to the Capuchin order in Vienna.
10. Barmherziger Brunn (Fontana del Fanatico)
Baroque fountain depicting the miracle of The Good Samaritan; located in the Hofburg Palace complex.
- Historical Significance: Represents one of the most significant events in Christianity.
- Baroque Sculpture: Features intricate sculptural details and beautiful artwork.
- Hofburg Palace: Visit other famous attractions within the Hofburg Palace complex.
11. Zum heiligen Geist (Church of the Holy Ghost)
Small Baroque church with a unique and beautiful interior; features a stunning dome and frescoes.
- Baroque Architecture: Features an impressive dome and ornate stucco work.
- Historical Significance: Constructed in the late 17th century to serve as a votive offering for Vienna's safety.
- Hidden Gem: A lesser-known but equally stunning church in Vienna.
12. Klosterneuburg Monastery
Abbacy complex including a church, monastery, and vineyard; houses the famous St. Christopher's Tower.
- Monastic History: Learn about the monks who have resided here for centuries.
- St. Christopher's Tower: Climb the tower for panoramic views of the Wachau Valley.
- Wine Tasting: Sample wines produced at the monastery's vineyard.
13. Zentralfriedhof (Central Cemetery)
Largest cemetery in Vienna with numerous notable graves; a peaceful and beautiful green space.
- Historical Figures: Visit the graves of famous Austrians, including Beethoven and Freud.
- Peaceful Green Space: A tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city.
- Artistic Graves: Admire the artistic designs and inscriptions on many of the graves.
14. Jesuitenkirche (St. Michael's Church)
Baroque church with an elaborate interior; known for its stunning frescoes and ornate altar.
- Baroque Architecture: Features a beautiful dome, frescoes, and stucco work.
- Historical Significance: Constructed as part of the Jesuit order's expansion in Vienna.
- Ornate Altar: The high altar is a masterpiece of wood carving and gilding.
15. Ruprechtskirche (St. Ruprecht's Church)
Romanesque church with a mix of Gothic elements; houses the tomb of Duke Rudolf IV.
- Historical Significance: Built in the early 13th century and holds historical importance.
- Romanesque Architecture: Features a Romanesque nave and Gothic choir.
- Duke Rudolf IV's Tomb: Visit the tomb of the influential Duke who expanded Vienna during his reign.