Welsche Kirche, Graz, Baroque church in Gries district, Graz, Austria.
Welsche Kirche is a baroque church in the Gries district of Graz featuring a symmetrical stone facade made of sandstone decorated with statues representing Faith, Hope, and Love. The structure displays characteristic baroque proportions and ornamental details throughout its design.
Construction began in 1717 by Italian craftsmen and builders supported by over 100 families and Styrian nobles, with the church completed in 1725. It was built to serve the religious needs of the Italian community that had settled in Graz.
The church is named after the Italian crafts community that settled in this area, and it is dedicated to Saint Francis of Paola. It served as a spiritual center and gathering place for the Italian population throughout its history.
The church is located at Griesplatz and easily accessible on foot, with clear signage and an open plaza making it straightforward to reach. Regular services are held, so visitors should check opening times before attempting to look inside.
The 1843 organ was built by Alois Hörbiger and features 16 registers with various stops such as Principal and Gedackt. This historical instrument is still used in services and contributes significantly to the acoustics during worship.
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