T his is one of the greatest churches in the country, but many tourists pass it over because it's not featured prominently in most tour books, and isn't in the center of town. In fact, the Fodor's guide to Vienna only gives it a glancing mention. However, the Votivkirche is on the Ringstraße, and is within walking distance of both the Rathaus and the Sigmund Freud museum. And if you're into photography, there is a park across the street that provides unobstructed views of the facade. It's well worth a visit.
The church was commissioned by Emperor Franz Joseph after a mentally ill tailor tried to kill him in February of 1853. The Emperor survived, and ordered the church built on the spot where the attack happened. The church stands alone on a slight rise overlooking the heart of the city. Its height, when contrasted with the statue of neighboring buildings, emphasizes the purpose of this building -- to be a monument to a specific event. Like many other churches in Austria, there is a tomb inside. Specifically, the tomb of Niklas Salm, who led the Austrian army during the Turkish siege of 1529.
27 February, 1853 - The attempted assassination of Emperor Franz Joseph.
1854 - A contest opens to find the best design for a devotional church.
Heather Vais
Thursday, October 2nd, 2008 @ 11:02am
Rating: Five stars. On a recent tour of Vienna our bus guide commented that this church was erected as an act of Thanksgiving by the Emperor for his surviving the attack (actually she said it was his brother who was attacked but never mind that).The bottom line is it appears the church was erected to be a place of gratitude. That point shouldn't be overlooked.
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Heather Vais
Five stars.