Heiligenkreuzkirche, Villach

Heiligenkreuzkirche is a Roman Catholic parish church in the Perau district featuring a cross-shaped floor plan with two three-story towers crowned by onion domes. The building has an octagonal central dome with cross-ribbed vaulting that gives the interior its distinctive structure.

The church was built between 1726 and 1744 based on plans by Hans Eder under Andreas Sigl's supervision, replacing an earlier chapel documented from 1203. The lengthy construction period and succession of an older house of worship reveal the long-standing importance of this location to the community.

The interior displays frescoes from the 1960s by Fritz Fröhlich featuring apocalyptic imagery, paired with a monumental high altar holding a Crucifixion group. These artistic elements shape how visitors experience the sacred space when they step inside.

The church welcomes visitors and holds services throughout the week at different times, allowing people to join according to their schedule. It is helpful to check ahead for current visiting times, as access hours may vary depending on the season and local events.

Local tradition holds that the church's location was chosen after a crucifix mysteriously appeared from a nearby wall. This event established Perau as a pilgrimage destination, and the spiritual significance of the spot continues to influence why people visit today.