Pfarrkirche Spittal an der Drau

Nestled in the charming town of Spittal an der Drau, the Pfarrkirche Spittal an der Drau stands as a testament to centuries of architectural evolution and historical significance. This remarkable parish church, dedicated to the Annunciation of Mary, invites visitors to explore its rich past and admire its unique blend of architectural styles.

The Historical Tapestry of Pfarrkirche Spittal an der Drau

The origins of the Pfarrkirche date back to before 1191, when it was initially established as a capella cum hospitale by the brothers Otto II and Archdeacon Hermann I of Ortenburg. This early chapel laid the foundation for what would become a significant religious site in the region. By the mid-13th century, the church underwent reconstruction, followed by a re-consecration in 1311.

In 1513, Emperor Maximilian entrusted the church to the Order of Saint George in Millstatt, marking a new chapter in its history. The church saw further transformation in 1584 under the guidance of Ernfried von Salamanca-Ortenburg and his nephews, Hans and Bernhard. However, its journey was not without challenges. A devastating earthquake in 1690 caused the collapse of the church tower, and a great fire in 1797 melted the bells.

The resilience of this sacred site is evident in its numerous restorations, including a significant one between 1860 and 1863. The tower, as seen today, was rebuilt in 1896 following designs by Viktor Lunz. The 20th century brought more changes, with a modern expansion in 1966 designed by Anton Zemann to accommodate a growing congregation.

Architectural Marvels

The Pfarrkirche Spittal an der Drau is a captivating blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and modern architectural elements. The three-nave, four-bay nave is rooted in Romanesque tradition, while the west facade features a pointed arch window from the early 14th century. The round-arched column portal with a triangular tympanum, updated in the 19th century, adds to the church's eclectic charm.

One of the most striking features is the neo-Gothic tower with its pointed spire, seamlessly integrated into the right side of the facade. Within the tower hangs a bell cast by Martin Pucher in 1799, a symbol of the church's enduring legacy.

Inside, the church's original flat-roofed nave was transformed in 1307 with the addition of a ribbed vault, concealing the clerestory windows in the central nave. The side aisles, expanded in 1584, boast barrel vaults and are adorned with paintings by August Veiter from around 1900, depicting biblical scenes such as the Baptism of Jesus and the Last Supper.

The Modern Altar and Artistic Treasures

The modern altar area is a harmonious blend of old and new, featuring a tent-like roof structure supported by concrete beams. This contemporary space is dominated by large window walls and a magnificent mosaic of the Annunciation, crafted between 1965 and 1966 from designs by Karl Bauer.

The interior is rich with art and history. Life-sized wooden statues of saints, including Mary and John the Evangelist, grace the southern wall of the choir. These stand above fragments of a sarcophagus from around 1418, depicting historical figures from the House of Cilli.

In the northern aisle, a Pietà from circa 1420 resides in a niche, while a neo-Gothic sculpture group representing the Annunciation to Mary, originally part of the high altar, can be found on the western rear wall. The church also houses a painting of the grieving Mary Magdalene and a 19th-century crucifix.

Musical Heritage

The church's musical heritage is celebrated with a modern organ built in 2005 by the Rieger company from Schwarzach near Bregenz. This instrument features 27 registers on two manuals and a pedal, ensuring that the Pfarrkirche continues to resonate with the sounds of sacred music.

A Journey Through Time

Exploring the Pfarrkirche Spittal an der Drau is like stepping into a living history book. From its Romanesque roots to its modern expansions, the church embodies the spirit of resilience and adaptation. Visitors can marvel at its architectural beauty, delve into its storied past, and find solace in its sacred spaces.

Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or a spiritual seeker, the Pfarrkirche Spittal an der Drau offers a captivating journey through time, inviting you to uncover the layers of history embedded within its walls.