Herz Jesu Church: A Neo-Gothic Masterpiece in Bregenz
Discover the architectural brilliance and tranquil atmosphere of Herz Jesu Church, a neo-Gothic landmark in Bregenz with a rich history and cultural significance.
Herz Jesu Church, or Sacred Heart Church, stands majestically on Kolpingplatz in Bregenz, offering a serene escape and a striking example of neo-Gothic architecture. Constructed between 1905 and 1908, the church's origins trace back to the late 19th century when citizens of Bregenz sought to honor the Sacred Heart of Jesus. This vision materialized after an anonymous donation in 1900 enabled the purchase of the construction site. The church, designed by Stuttgart architect Joseph Cades, features a cruciform layout with a three-nave basilica. Its most distinctive features are the two towering spires that reach 62 meters, reminiscent of Norman architecture. The interior is illuminated by natural light streaming through tripartite windows in the clerestory, which is nearly twice the height of the side aisles, creating cathedral-like reverberation. The Herz Jesu Church is also home to a remarkable organ built between 1928 and 1931 by Josef Behmann. This instrument, considered a high-ranking sound monument, boasts 53 registers and 4,650 pipes, producing rich and resonant sounds that enhance both liturgical services and concert performances. The largest bell, the Herz-Jesu Bell, weighs 5,270 kg and is considered a masterpiece of post-war bell casting. Throughout the years, Herz Jesu Church has undergone several renovations, including the addition of underfloor heating in the early 1990s and restoration of the organ in 1994. In 2014, a memorial Stations of the Cross was installed in the side aisles to commemorate the victims of National Socialist rule from Bregenz.
Local tips
- Visit during a service or concert to experience the church's remarkable organ and acoustics.
- Take a stroll around the surrounding streets to explore local shops and cafes.
- Admire the intricate stained glass windows and religious artworks within the church.
A brief summary to Herz Jesu
- Kolpingpl. 1, Bregenz, 6900, AT
- +43557490180
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-7:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 9 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-7:45 pm
Getting There
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Walking
Herz Jesu Church is located on Kolpingplatz, a short walk from the Bregenz city center. From the Kornmarktplatz, head east towards the church, which is easily visible due to its towering spires. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes.
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Public Transport
The Stadtbus Bregenz operates several bus routes that stop near Herz Jesu Church. Take any bus that stops at 'Bregenz Kolpingplatz'. A single trip ticket costs around EUR 2.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Bregenz. A short taxi ride from the Bregenz train station (Hauptbahnhof) to Herz Jesu Church will cost approximately EUR 5.30 plus EUR 2.25 per 0.62 miles.
Attractions Nearby to Herz Jesu
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Brunnen Maurachgasse
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Martinsturm
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Unteres Tor (Stadttor)
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Brunnen am Leutbühel
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Oberstadt
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Bregenz Old City
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Brunnen Minnesänger von Monfort
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Seekapelle zu unserer lieben Frau am See
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galerie
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K29 - Schmalste Hausfront weit und breit
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Atelier Am Kornmarktplatz 1.Stock / 1.floor / 1er etage
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Theater am Kornmarkt
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Vorarlberg Museum
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Pfänderbahn
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Kunsthaus Bregenz
Landmarks nearby to Herz Jesu
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Bregenz Altstadt
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Deuringschlössle
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Beckenturm
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Nepomukkapelle
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Bregenz Tourismus & Stadtmarketing GmbH
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Pfänderbahn-Parkhaus
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Bregenz Promenad (Corniche)
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Fischersteg - Sunset Bar - Bregenz
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Jodok Fink Denkmal
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Kloster Marienberg
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Heilige Kübel von Bregenz
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Seebühne Bregenz
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Festspielhaus Bregenz
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Burgruine Hohenbregenz
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Parish church of Saint Kolumban