St. Peter’s Church (Peterskirche) may occupy a small corner of Vienna’s magnificent historic center, but it’s architectural finery is on a grand scale. See the church’s breathtaking façade and the awe-inspiring artworks, woodcarvings and glassworks that decorate the interior. The church is believed to stand on a site that has been sacred to the Christian faith for centuries. Some believe Charlemagne himself founded a church here in 792.
The church that you can see today was constructed between 1703 and 1708. The fine flourishes in the church’s façade were completed by the noted Belvedere Palace architect Hildebrandt. Admire the muted tones of the yellow-and-white façade and the magnificent central dome and flanking towers topped with turquoise-colored copper cupolas. Facing the church, you’ll see a relief plaque to your right. This plaque tells the story of Charlemagne, the medieval historical figure.
Enter the church via its grand portal and explore the compact nave. You’ll see beautifully gilded woodcarvings and 18th-century frescoes adorning the walls. Check out the lavishly decorated altarpieces and the glass galleries that stretch upward from each side of the Baroque high altar. The Martyrdom of St. John of Nepomuk and the Coronation of the Virgin are among the scenes depicted. Other highlights include the Baroque gilded pulpit with its representation of the Holy Trinity and the immense organ.
If you are visiting St. Peter’s Church before the Christmas period, be sure to visit the crypt to see the charming decorations of the Weihnachten nativity scenes.
St. Peter’s Church is located on Petersplatz in the heart of Vienna’s Old Town (Innere Stadt). The church’s small size means it is only visible when exploring the small city square. Visit the church for free any day of the week, including public holidays. Subway stations are located a few blocks’ walk away. Add St. Peter’s Church to your walking tour of Vienna’s historic Old Town and check out the nearby St. Michael’s Church and St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
