Augustinian Church Vienna
Historic 14th-century church, former imperial court parish, featuring royal wedding history & Habsburg heart urns.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Augustinian Church Vienna
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 14th-century church, former imperial court parish, featuring royal wedding history & Habsburg heart urns.
"A poignant glimpse into imperial history with stunning Baroque and Gothic architecture."
🤫 Be Respectful
Remember this is an active place of worship. Dress modestly and maintain a quiet demeanor.
🎶 Enjoy the Music
Check for scheduled organ concerts or masses; the church is renowned for its music.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Habsburg Royal Hearts
Loreto Chapel
See the urns holding the hearts of Habsburg rulers, a poignant and unique historical display.
Baroque Altar
Main Altar
Marvel at the grand Baroque altar, a stunning centerpiece of the church's interior.
Gothic Architecture
Interior
Appreciate the harmonious Gothic interior, a testament to centuries of architectural evolution.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Historical Significance & Royal Connections
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 Be Respectful
Remember this is an active place of worship. Dress modestly and maintain a quiet demeanor.
🎶 Enjoy the Music
Check for scheduled organ concerts or masses; the church is renowned for its music.
📍 Location, Location!
It's right next to the Hofburg Palace, making it easy to combine with other attractions.
📸 Capture the Grandeur
Photography is usually allowed, but check for any restrictions before snapping.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 Be Respectful
Remember this is an active place of worship. Dress modestly and maintain a quiet demeanor.
🎶 Enjoy the Music
Check for scheduled organ concerts or masses; the church is renowned for its music.
📍 Location, Location!
It's right next to the Hofburg Palace, making it easy to combine with other attractions.
📸 Capture the Grandeur
Photography is usually allowed, but check for any restrictions before snapping.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Augustinian Church for its rich history, particularly its role in royal weddings and the unique collection of Habsburg hearts. The stunning Baroque altar and Gothic architecture are frequently highlighted as impressive features. Some note that it's a solemn place of worship, best appreciated during quieter times.
"The place is magnificent as everybody has mentioned. I just want to add that they now (probably temporarily, before Easter) have small market/fair in the side chapel. What a great idea to have a drink/snack in the church in a very cold day! I mean it as a tourist. I guess this one is meant to serve as a community meeting point. All the people and priests seem to know each other and communicate actively and joyfully."
aelia kapitolina
"Built in the 14th century, as part of an Augustine monastery, Augustine’s Church is historically significant as it houses the hearts of the Hapsburg royalty. It has beautiful Rococo-Style side chapels, and a really cool sculpture near the front door. With its monastic roots this is a fairly no-frills church in comparison to some of the more ostentatious churches around. It is definitely worth a visit if you enjoy history, are in Vienna, and have the time. A visit here is easily coupled with visits to the Albertina museum and multiple other churches and museums in the area."
Alex Matheson
"Graceful church housing a grand altar and a carved tomb by A.Canova.
A must see if you want to feel the Imperial Spirit."
A
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Augustinian Church is centrally located on Josefsplatz, adjacent to the Hofburg Palace. You can easily reach it by public transport, with several tram and bus lines stopping nearby. The Stephansplatz U-Bahn station is also a short walk away.
Yes, it's practically on the doorstep of the Hofburg Palace complex, including the Sisi Museum and Imperial Apartments. It's also a short walk from St. Stephen's Cathedral.
Absolutely! The church is in the heart of Vienna's historic center, making it very walkable from most central hotels and attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main church area is typically free, allowing you to admire the architecture. However, special exhibitions or access to certain chapels might require a fee.
Opening hours can vary, but generally, the church is open daily. It's best to check the official website or local listings for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Access to the Loreto Chapel, where the Habsburg hearts are kept, is usually included with general admission or may be part of a specific tour. It's advisable to inquire on-site.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The Augustinian Church dates back to 1327 and served as the parish church for the imperial court. It hosted numerous royal weddings, including Napoleon's proxy marriage to Marie Louise in 1810 and Emperor Franz Joseph and Sisi's in 1854. +1
Key highlights include the grand Baroque altar, the Gothic interior, and the unique collection of urns containing the hearts of Habsburg rulers in the Loreto Chapel.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any posted signs or ask church staff if you're unsure.
Yes, the church is well-known for its church music and often hosts performances of masses by composers like Mozart, Haydn, and Schubert.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The church's central location next to the Hofburg Palace makes it an easy stop during a family outing, but consider it a brief, educational visit rather than an extended activity. Keep in mind that it is an active place of worship, so maintaining quiet is important. If your family enjoys grand architecture and historical narratives, it can be a worthwhile addition to your Vienna itinerary.
👑 History Buffs & Royalty Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to explore the Baroque altar and appreciate the Gothic architectural elements that speak to the church's long and storied past.
Combine your visit with the nearby Hofburg Palace to fully immerse yourself in the imperial history of Vienna. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Royal Wedding Venue
+1 These events underscore the church's historical importance as a backdrop for pivotal moments in European royalty. These ceremonies highlight the church's role not just as a place of worship, but as a symbol of imperial power and dynastic alliances. The grandeur of these occasions is reflected in the church's architecture and its continued significance as a historical landmark. Experiencing the atmosphere where such momentous events unfolded offers a unique connection to Austria's imperial past.
The Unique Habsburg Heart Collection
Visiting the Loreto Chapel offers a somber yet fascinating glimpse into the elaborate rituals surrounding the death and remembrance of the imperial family. It's a poignant reminder of the dynasty's long and influential reign over Austria and beyond. The sheer number of urns speaks volumes about the dynasty's enduring legacy and the intricate ways they commemorated their lineage.
Architectural Evolution: Gothic to Baroque
Over centuries, as the Hofburg Palace complex expanded, the church was integrated and underwent significant transformations. In the 17th century, the interior was magnificently Baroqued, with the addition of side chapels and ornate decorations that still impress visitors today.
This evolution from its Gothic roots to Baroque splendor is evident throughout the church, offering a rich visual narrative of its past. The harmonious Gothic interior, as mentioned in some descriptions, likely refers to the underlying structure that was then enhanced with Baroque elements. +1
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