Jesuit Church (University Church)

The Jesuit Church, also known as the University Church (Universitätskirche), stands in the heart of Vienna's old town near the Old University and is one of the most magnificent Baroque churches in Austria. Built between 1623 and 1627 as part of the Counter-Reformation, it was remodeled from 1703 by the famous Baroque architect Andrea Pozzo.

 Pozzo, himself a Jesuit, gave the interior a unique sense of space with illusionistic perspective frescoes on the ceiling and dome, and brought key elements of Roman Baroque architecture to Vienna. Particularly striking is the ceiling fresco above the nave, which shows ingenious trompe-l'oeil architecture that lends the space extra depth and height. The gilded side altars, the rich stucco decoration and the imposing 18th-century organ also make the church an art-historical gem. The combination of Baroque splendor and Jesuit intellectualism gives the place a special atmosphere. 

You can not only admire the elaborate architecture but also attend regular sacred concerts, an insider tip for classical music lovers, as the acoustics of the church are exceptional. Its central location near the University of Vienna and the historic Jesuitengasse makes the church easy to reach and an ideal cultural stop on a walk through the city. 

Highlights: 

- Illusionistic ceiling frescoes by Andrea Pozzo 

- Richly decorated high altar and side altars 

- Historic organ and Baroque interior