Peterskirche Vienna

Located right in the heart of Vienna's city centre, not far from the cathedral, Peterskirche is a magnificent Baroque building inspired by St Peter's Basilica in Rome. While the current building dates from the 18th century, evidence shows that there has been a church in this spot for over 1600 years.

Over the years, several different churches have been constructed here: the oldest, of which nothing remains today, dates back to the Early Middle Ages. This then became a Romanesque building, before being destroyed in a fire in 1661.

The Baroque St Peter's Church that we see today was consacrated in 1733, and was the first domed structure in Vienna.

Inside Peterskirche

Despite its location in such a compact space, there is a surprising amount of room inside the church, which is richly decorated with golden stucco.

It boasts a magnificently ornate gilded pulpit, opposite which a dramatic gold and silver sculpture representing the Martyrdom of St John of Nepomuk commands attention. Thanks to this stunning collection of Baroque architecture, including the grand cupola painted with a fresco of The Coronation of Our Lady by Johann Michael Rottmayr, Peterskirche is considered one of the prettiest in Vienna.

Worth a visit

With free entry and a location right in the heart of the city, this beautiful church is an must-see, especially for fans of Baroque art and architecture. Peterskirche also plays host to regular concerts and organ recitals: definitely worth a look for music fans.