Schwarzspanierkirche, Protected church in Alsergrund, Vienna, Austria
The Schwarzspanierkirche is a protected building in Vienna featuring a three-part facade across two floors, influenced by Il Gesu-style architecture. Today its main facade is integrated into the Albert Schweitzer House, a Protestant student residence.
The building was constructed between 1690 and 1727 and served as an evangelical garrison from 1861 to 1918. Later it was converted into a Russian Orthodox church in 1935.
The church held significance for Ludwig van Beethoven, who lived in the nearby Schwarzspanierhaus until his death. His presence in the neighborhood continues to shape how people remember this place.
The building can be viewed from the outside as its facade is accessible from the student residence. Interior access is limited, but the distinctive exterior provides a good sense of the architecture.
The ceiling paintings by Antonio Pellegrini were hidden under layers of paint for decades and were rediscovered during restoration work in 1939. These artistic works reveal how valuable details can lie concealed beneath deterioration.
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