Karlskirche

August 14th

The Karlskriche Church in the Karlsplatz is one of the most impressive structures in Vienna, and never failed to catch my eye when I passed by it either on the trams or just walking around the city. It was a the perfect example of the baroque grandeur that exemplified certain areas of the city, and is indeed considered to be one of the most outstanding Baroque church structures north of the Alps. The view from the dome offered another exceptional example of the beauty of Vienna, and must have been all the more impressive in the context of the cityscape that the city used to resemble. I really enjoyed effect that the overlooking the church had overlooking the karlsplatz with the two original subway stations having been restored to the way that they had been when Otto Wagner first designed them.

The dedication of the Church to St. Charles Borromeo is a great indication of the Catholic nature of the building. Its dedication shows that it emphasizes doing good works for the community as Borromeo is remembered primarily for the good deeds that he did in helping plague victims during the most recent plague. The inside designs mostly illuminated the good deeds done by Borromeo through allegorical paintings and reliefs, with of course the usual emphasis on biblical themes and stories.

I also found it interesting that when it was built it offered a direct line of sight to the Hofburg, and until 1918 it was the Imperial Patron Parish Church. This added significance to the historical presence of the church makes a large difference to me, as I really enjoy imagining all of the rulers that we have been learning about attending weekly mass there. The incredibly ornate baroque architecture lent itself well to the fact that the royal family spent many Sundays there, as it is a great display of imperial wealth, and therefore imperial power. Any visiting diplomats or foreigners of importance would have undoubtedly been impressed by the styling of the church. The style fit the function perfectly, in addition to being an incredibly impressive display of architecture.