Erzbischöfliches Ordinariat (archiepiscopal ordinariate)

The monumental building of the Archbishop's Ordinariate is a real eye-catcher. The main façade made of colorful sandstone stretches over 80 meters along Schoferstraße.

Delicate ornamentation adorns the Romanesque-style building, which was completed in 1906 after three years of construction. Austrian architect Raimund Jeblinger made full use of the imaginative architecture of historicism in the design.

This becomes clear as soon as you enter the imposing ordinariate building through its heavy, elaborately crafted wrought-iron doors. Mighty vaults and colorful paintings by Franz Schilling adorn the staircase from the entrance to the third floor.

Anyone wanting to see more of the colorful art with Byzantine, Egyptian and Celtic influences would have to make an appointment with the archbishop, as visitors can only access the entrance area. From here, the concept, namely the depiction of the path from earthly darkness to heavenly glory, is recognizable.the entrance area resembles a Romanesque crypt, whereas massive columns on the upper floors become fewer, windows more and paintings brighter.

Dare to take a look inside! If work permits, the reception staff will be happy to answer your questions about the symbolism of architecture and art.

Author: Nicole Bee