St Peter’s Church Vienna: Peterskirche Concert and Free Visit
Another of the famous churches in Vienna is the wonderful St Peter’s Catholic Church, or Peterskirche. St Peter’s Catholic Church is centrally located and free to visit, except during evening concerts. It’s a short walk from St Stephen’s Cathedral, and you can’t really miss the distinctive dome.
Peterskirche, as it’s known locally, is a baroque building that was consecrated in 1733. In 1970, the pastoral care of Peterskirche was entrusted to priests of Opus Dei. I visited Peterskirche a few times and enjoyed seeing inside. The outside is lovely too and is great to see from the various side roads leading to the building.
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Peterskirche History
Peterskirche stands on a site linked with the Roman camp of Vindobona. It has had many forms, including an older Romanesque church. They have documented St Peter’s Church in the 12th century. The current Baroque church was started in 1701 and mostly finished in 1722, 11 years before it was consecrated.
Classic Ensemble Classical Concert at Peterskirche.
On our latest visit to Vienna, we attended an evening concert at the church. This was the Classic Ensemble, which performed some well-known music by famous composers, including Vivaldi, Schubert, Beethoven, and Haydn.
The venue, after dark, was a great backdrop for a concert, and the performers were excellent. The baroque interior in dim light, with some old favourites being performed, hit the spot. We booked tickets through GetYourGuide, and it was a straightforward process.
What to see inside St Peter’s Church in Vienna
There are many features to see when visiting inside Peterskirche. It is one of many pleasant churches to visit in Vienna.
Church Organ
One thing I like to see while visiting churches is the primary organ. The one in St Peter’s Church is above the door on a balcony and looks great. The organ blends into the baroque interior seamlessly and is rather decorative.
High Altar
The high altar of St Peter’s Church is beautiful, as are those in most churches around the world. Antonio Galli Bibiena created this Baroque high altar in Bologna, and Martino Altomonte created the altarpiece.
The altarpiece portrays the healing of the lame by both St Peter and St John in Jerusalem. There is also a small painting of the Immaculate Conception above the high altar, which was painted in the 19th century by the artist Kupelwieser.
Inside The Dome
The church’s dome is eye-catching from the outside; it’s also beautiful inside. The dome lets light into the church and features some pretty cool artwork inside.