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Kollegienkirche: A Baroque Masterpiece

Experience Baroque splendor at Salzburg's Kollegienkirche, a historic university church and Salzburg Festival venue on Universitätsplatz.

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The Kollegienkirche, or Collegiate Church, in Salzburg is a stunning example of Baroque architecture designed by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach. Built between 1694 and 1707, it stands as a testament to the city's rich cultural and religious history, serving as both a university church and a venue for the Salzburg Festival.

A brief summary to Kollegienkirche

Local tips

  • Visit during a service or concert to experience the church's acoustics and the impressive organ.
  • Take your time to admire the stucco artistry and architectural details within the bright, open interior.
  • Check the church's schedule for special events or art installations for an enriching cultural experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Kollegienkirche is located on Universitätsplatz in the heart of Salzburg's Old Town, making it easily accessible on foot from many central locations. From Salzburg Cathedral, walk north through the Residenzplatz, then continue onto Universitätsplatz. The church will be directly in front of you. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    The Kollegienkirche is a short walk from Herbert-von-Karajan-Platz, a major bus stop serviced by lines 1, 8, 10, A, 22, and 23. From Salzburg's main train station (Salzburg Hauptbahnhof), take bus line 1, 8, 10 or A to Herbert-von-Karajan-Platz. From there, walk a short distance to Universitätsplatz. A single ticket purchased onboard costs €3.00, while a pre-purchased ticket is cheaper.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Salzburg. A taxi from the Salzburg Hauptbahnhof (main train station) to the Kollegienkirche will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €9-13 for the ride. Taxi stands are located at the main train station and other key points throughout the city.

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Discover more about Kollegienkirche

The Kollegienkirche, also known as the Collegiate Church or University Church, is a jewel of Baroque architecture in Salzburg, Austria. Designed by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach, construction took place from 1694 to 1707. The church was commissioned by Archbishop Johann Ernst von Thun as a place of worship and learning for the Benedictine University. The church's striking white interior, devoid of paintings, creates a sense of openness and light, enhanced by high vaulted ceilings, dramatic stucco work, and delicate ornamentation. The facade features twin towers and a curved central section, giving the church a majestic presence on Universitätsplatz. The high altar, designed by Anton Pfaffinger, incorporates classical columns that represent the Seven Pillars of Wisdom, with altar paintings by Johann Michael Rottmayr. Throughout its history, the Kollegienkirche has served various purposes. It was used as a garrison church after the university was dissolved and even as a hay depot during the Napoleonic occupation. In 1922, it hosted the premiere of Hugo von Hofmannsthal's "Das Salzburger große Welttheater," directed by Max Reinhardt. The church has been a regular venue for the Salzburg Festival since the 1970s, hosting sacred and choral concerts, as well as contemporary music performances. Today, the Kollegienkirche is both a parish church for those connected to the university and a celebrated concert venue, maintaining its place as a cornerstone of Salzburg's cultural landscape.

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