Vienna at the turn of the 20th century was an arena for groundbreaking changes in art and architecture. In 1897, a group of young progressive artists, led by Gustav Klimt, broke with academicism and established the Vienna Secession (Wiener Secession). This movement, inspired by nature and modernity, introduced organic forms, elegant lines and unusual decorative details to architecture. Vienna became one of the centres of the European avant-garde, and its Art Nouveau heritage still adorns the city today and impresses with its splendour. One of the most remarkable examples of the architecture of the period is the Kirche am Steinhof, a gem of Viennese Art Nouveau, whose design came from the hand of the greatest master of the period, Otto Wagner.
History of the origins of the church
The Kirche am Steinhof, also known as St Leopold’s Church, is located on the grounds of the former Steinhof Psychiatric Hospital in Vienna and is regarded as one of the most important Art Nouveau-style religious works in the world. Construction of the church took place between 1903 and 1907, and its opening was honoured on 8 October 1907 by Archduke Franz Ferdinand himself. Wagner’s design, modern and innovative, aroused considerable controversy, especially among the conservative circles of the Viennese elite. Despite this, the temple became the leading building of the era and still impresses today with its unique appearance and functionality.
Architecture of the pearl of Art Nouveau
The Kirche am Steinhof, located 310 metres above sea level, is distinguished by its monumental dome and two side towers. Modern materials and techniques were used in the design – the dome was covered with gilded tiles and the facade was made of Carrara marble. The decoration of the church is the work of the most prominent artists of the Viennese Art Nouveau. Koloman Moser, one of the key representatives of the movement, designed the stained-glass windows and mosaics, which impress with their richness of colour and symbolism. The sculptural angels adorning the façade are the work of Othmar Schimkowitz, and the monumental figures of St Leopold and St Severin were made by Richard Luksch. The central mosaic behind the altar depicts a vision of the heavenly reception of the soul of the deceased, which, combined with the shining gold interior, gives the place an almost mystical feel.
C.Stadler/Bwag, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Unique solutions in the Kirche am Steinhof
The architect’s architectural precision is evident in every detail. Among other things, Wagner introduced rounded corners, minimising the risk of injury. Emergency exits were built into the side walls and access to the pulpit is only possible from the sacristy, providing better control over the gathered worshippers. A division of space was also used – separate entrances for male and female patients, in line with the segregation rules of the time in psychiatric hospitals. Inside the church, the pews varied in width to accommodate the different patient groups. The naves were designed so that the acoustics were conducive to the reception of music and words, and the gentle slope of the floor facilitates the visibility of the altar. Even the ventilation system and lighting were carefully planned to ensure the comfort of worshippers and hospital patients.
Renovations and contemporary significance of Kirche am Steinhof
After years of neglect, the Kirche am Steinhof underwent a major renovation, which began in 2000 and lasted six years. As part of the work, the mosaics, the gilded dome and the marble facade were restored. The interior of the church regained its original splendour – from the polished wooden pews to the chandeliers and wall decorations. Every detail has been painstakingly restored, restoring the temple to its status as one of the most valuable Art Nouveau monuments in Europe. In recognition of its artistic and historical value, the Kirche am Steinhof became the main motif of one of the euro collector coins. It pays tribute to the vision of Otto Wagner, who – although not always appreciated in his day – built a work of architecture ahead of its time. Today, the temple shines over the city like a most precious jewel.
Source: wienmuseum.at, stadt-wien.at
Also read: Architecture | Church architecture | City | Vienna | Austria
