St. Stephen's Cathedral

St. Stephen's Cathedral is a Catholic place of worship in the center of Vienna and one of Austria's tallest church buildings. The multi-colored tile pattern on the roof displays a double-headed eagle and the city coat of arms, while the two towers rise to different heights.

The foundation stone was laid in the 12th century under Duke Heinrich II Jasomirgott, followed by centuries of additions and modifications that combined Romanesque and Gothic elements.

The building bears its name in honor of Saint Stephen, the Christian martyr, and serves as the seat of Vienna's archbishop. Visitors can attend services or explore the side chapels where worshippers light candles and pray in quiet corners.

The building opens early in the morning each day and closes late in the evening, allowing visitors to enter throughout the day and into the evening hours. Guided tours of the main hall, catacombs, and observation towers run regularly.

The Pummerin bell hangs in the north tower and ranks among Europe's largest free-swinging church bells. It rings only on special occasions such as New Year or major religious celebrations.

Location: Innere Stadt

Inception: 1137

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture, Gothic architecture

Height: 136.44 m

Length: 107.2 m

Width: 34.2 m

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Address: Stephansplatz

Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 06:00-22:00; Sunday 07:00-22:00

Phone: +431515523530

Website: https://stephanskirche.at

GPS coordinates: 48.20843,16.37326

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:24