Capistran-Kanzel, Gothic pulpit at St. Stephen's Cathedral, Vienna, Austria.
The Capistran-Kanzel is a stone pulpit in St. Stephen's Cathedral with three sides decorated with pointed arches and elaborate carved surfaces. The open rear allows access for the preacher to enter the structure from inside the church.
An original wooden pulpit from the 15th century was later recreated in stone and expanded in 1737 by Johann Joseph Resler with sculptural additions. This redesign created the monument visible today with its distinctive decorative elements.
The pulpit is named after Saint John of Capistrano, a Franciscan preacher whose statue appears on it holding a flag and surrounded by weapons. His depiction here reflects his spiritual leadership during the conflicts following the fall of Constantinople.
The pulpit can be viewed during the cathedral's opening hours and is visible from most areas inside the church. Guided tours offer detailed information about the architectural features and historical background if you want to learn more.
The sculpture group shows the saint holding a flag while standing over a defeated soldier, surrounded by weapons and banners. This martial depiction of a religious figure is an unusual way to memorialize a spiritual leader within a church setting.
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