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Deutschordenskirche: A Gothic Gem with Teutonic Roots

Discover Vienna's Deutschordenskirche: A Gothic church with a treasury of Teutonic artifacts and a Mozart connection, near St. Stephen's Cathedral.

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The Deutschordenskirche, or Church of the Teutonic Order, is a captivating Gothic church in Vienna's heart, near St. Stephen's Cathedral. Founded in the 14th century, it houses a treasury with artifacts from the Teutonic Knights and boasts a connection to Mozart, offering a unique glimpse into Vienna's layered history.

A brief summary to Deutschordenskirche

Local tips

  • Visit the Schatzkammer (Treasury) to see the Teutonic Order's collection of artifacts, including a unicorn horn and ancient chalices.
  • Check the opening hours for the church and treasury in advance.
  • Attend a concert in the Sala Terrena, where Mozart once performed, for a classical music experience in a historic setting.
  • Look for the tombstone of Count Siegfried Sarau, featuring relief work by Giovanni Stanetti, for a glimpse into the artistic details within the church.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Deutschordenskirche is easily accessible via public transport. From Stephansplatz station (U1 and U3 lines), walk east on Singerstraße. The church will be on your right. A single Vienna public transport ticket costs €3.

  • Walking

    From Stephansplatz, walk east on Singerstraße. The Deutschordenskirche is a short walk from the cathedral. The entrance to the church is located on the right side of Singerstrasse.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Vienna. A short taxi ride from Stephansplatz to Deutschordenskirche on Singerstrasse will cost approximately €5-€7. Taxi stands are located around Stephansplatz.

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Discover more about Deutschordenskirche

The Deutschordenskirche, officially known as the Church of Saint Elisabeth of Hungary, serves as the mother church of the Teutonic Order, a Roman Catholic religious order with German roots dating back to the late 12th century. Founded during the Crusades, the Teutonic Order played a significant role in medieval Europe, and the Deutschordenskirche reflects their enduring legacy. Construction on the church began in 1326 and concluded in 1375, establishing a Gothic foundation. Located a short walk from Stephansdom (St. Stephen's Cathedral) in Vienna's historical center, the church provides a unique architectural experience. While many churches in Vienna underwent Baroque transformations, the Deutschordenskirche retains its Gothic essence. The interior showcases pointed arches, and the walls are lined with armorial bearings representing the Teutonic Knights. These coats of arms offer a visual representation of the Order's history and its members' contributions. One of the church's prized possessions is a Flemish winged triptych, a polychromed altarpiece dating back to 1520. This artwork depicts scenes from the Passion of Christ. The church is also home to the Schatzkammer, or Treasury, a museum that houses a collection of artifacts accumulated by the Teutonic Order over centuries. The Schatzkammer is one of Vienna's oldest treasure collections, encompassing Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque periods. Notable items include a 13th-century coronation ring, ornate chalices, and ceremonial objects. The treasury is open on select days. The church has undergone several renovations, including a restoration after damage during World War II. Today, the Deutschordenskirche serves as a place of worship and a center for the Teutonic Order's activities. Visitors are welcome to attend mass and experience the spiritual atmosphere. The Sala Terrena on the ground floor is adorned with Baroque trompe l'oeil murals and was a venue where Mozart performed for Viennese aristocracy.

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