Capuchin Church
Language: English / USA
The Capuchin Church in Vienna, officially known as the Church of St. Mary of the Angels, is an important place of worship and one of the city's most famous monuments, especially known for the Imperial Crypt, the burial place of the Habsburg family. Located in Vienna's historic center, near the imperial Hofburg palace, the church represents a major historical and cultural point of interest.
The church was built in the 17th century, at the behest of Empress Anna of Austria, wife of Emperor Matthias. Construction began in 1622 and was completed in 1633. The architecture of the church is simple and austere, reflecting the principles of simplicity and poverty typical of the Capuchin Order.
The Capuchin Church is mainly famous for the Imperial Crypt, also known as the Kapuzinergruft, located beneath the church. This crypt is the burial place of numerous members of the Habsburg dynasty, starting with Empress Anna and Emperor Matthias, who were the first to be buried here in 1633. Since then, the crypt has become the principal burial site for the Habsburgs, hosting the remains of 12 emperors, 19 empresses, and many other members of the royal family.
Among the most famous burials in the crypt are those of Maria Theresa, the great reformist empress, and her husband, Francis I of Lorraine. Their tombs, imposing and decorated with rich baroque details, are among the most visited. Emperor Franz Joseph I, Empress Elisabeth (Sissi), and their son, Crown Prince Rudolf, are also buried in the crypt.
The Imperial Crypt is organized into nine main chambers, each reflecting different eras and architectural styles. The tombs range from simple sarcophagi to elaborate monuments, reflecting the various historical phases and artistic styles that have succeeded over the centuries.
The Capuchin Church is not only a place of remembrance for the Habsburg family but also an active place of worship and a living community of Capuchin friars. The church's austere beauty, combined with the rich history of the crypt, makes this place a fascinating destination for visitors interested in the history and culture of Austria.
