Overview:

St. Stephen's Cathedral is the mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Vienna and the seat of the Archbishop of Vienna, Christoph Schonborn. Located in the center of Vienna, the cathedral is one of the city's most recognizable landmarks and a popular tourist destination. Its gothic and baroque architecture, the multi-colored roof tiles, and its 59m-high south tower make it a unique and grandiose sight. St. Stephen's Cathedral is over 800 years old, first mentioned as a Roman Catholic church in 1221 and later consecrated in 1147. It served as a place of worship for the city rulers, a coronation site, and a burial place of several Habsburg monarchs. Today, St. Stephen's Cathedral is one of the most important cultural and historical sites in Vienna and a symbol of Austrian identity. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Austria
Prominent Features:

1. 161-meter tall south tower, or Steffl, featuring a distinct Vienna tile roof 2. Unique masonry and intricate stone carvings of 'Heidentürme' or ‘heathen towers' 3. Immense bronze door portals featuring figures in Gothic style 4. Four large stained glass windows by the famous German artist, Robert Oerley 5. Ornamental interior decorations, including colourful frescoes, lustrous paintings and various altars 6. Basement oratorio containing remains of Wilhem of Austria 7. Organ concerts held frequently inside the cathedral 8. Gothic style metal balcony, popular for taking beautiful views of the city off the south tower of the cathedral 9. Sixteen side chapels commemorating various saints 10. Gold Pummerin bell in the south tower, which is sounded every Saturday at noon You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Austria.

History:

Saint Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna, Austria is one of the oldest churches in the city and a symbol of its history, culture and faith. It is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Vienna and is one of the city’s most important landmarks. The first church at the site was built in 1137, but the current cathedral was likely started in 1263. It was the site of many important events throughout history, most notably the coronation of the Habsburg kings and the Emperor of Austria. The cathedral also played a role in World War II, when it was used as a fortress. The building has endured numerous changes and renovations over the centuries, including rebuilding in its Baroque style in 1715 after the original was damaged in the Siege of Vienna. The iconic south tower was once topped with a gilded copper dome, which was destroyed by a fire in 1945 but later rebuilt in the original style. Today, Saint Stephen’s Cathedral serves as the home of the archbishop of Vienna, as well as a place of worship for many people in the city. Its beautiful interiors and artworks make it one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vienna. Visit one of the famous monuments of Austria with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Opened in 1147, St. Stephen’s Cathedral is the mother church of the Archdiocese of Vienna and one of the oldest churches still standing in Europe. 2. St. Stephen's Cathedral holds the relics of the Holy Roman Emperor, Emporer Frederic the III, who died in 1440. 3. Hundreds of carved stone figures, sculptures, and reliefs adorn the façade and interior of St. Stephen's Cathedral, tell the story of the Bible and Christian belief.. 4. The cathedral's towers stands tall at 136.4 meters in height, and resemble the letter 'G', for the first letter of the name Jesus in Greek. 5. For more than 500 years, the Pummerin - the largest bell of St. Stephen’s Cathedral - has symbolized the faith and hope of city residents. 6. The Catacombs of St. Stephen's contain the remains of over 11,000 people, including numerous archbishops, nobles and members of Habsburg dynasty. One of the historical monuments of Austria, it tells the story of a bygone era