Servitenkirche (Servite Church), Innsbruck
The Servite Church of Saint Josef, located on Maria-Theresien-Stra脽e in Innsbruck, is a symbol of the region's religious and architectural heritage. Established in the early 17th century, between 1613 and 1616 for the church and 1614 for the monastery, it was initiated by Anna Caterina Gonzaga of Mantua, the widow of Archduke Ferdinand II, with support from the Habsburgs.
Despite facing a setback when both the original monastery and church were destroyed by fire in 1620, the church was consecrated in 1626. The high altar, commissioned by Archduke Leopold V and completed by Matthias Carneri, was finished in 1628.
Over time, the Servite Church underwent several expansions and improvements. The side chapel was enlarged in 1722, and the Peregrine Chapel was added in 1731. The distinctive tower top was constructed in 1899 by Johann Wunibald Deininger. However, the 20th century brought challenges such as the closure of the monastery by the National Socialist regime in 1938 and significant damage from an air raid in 1943 during World War II. Post-war reconstruction led to the re-establishment of the order and the establishment of Saint Josef parish in 1947, with further renovations in 1968 and 1990.
Architecturally, the church features a long, simple structure parallel to the street, with a retracted choir, a Baroque south tower, and a unique chapel bay window. The interior includes a three-bay hall covered with a stitch cap barrel, supported by slender stucco marble pilasters. Artistic elements include ceiling paintings and frescoes by Hans Andre from the mid-20th century, and a Walcker organ installed in 1976.
The Servite Church of Saint Josef remains a significant religious and historical site in Innsbruck, representing centuries of architectural development, artistic expression, and resilience in the face of challenges.
Despite facing a setback when both the original monastery and church were destroyed by fire in 1620, the church was consecrated in 1626. The high altar, commissioned by Archduke Leopold V and completed by Matthias Carneri, was finished in 1628.
Over time, the Servite Church underwent several expansions and improvements. The side chapel was enlarged in 1722, and the Peregrine Chapel was added in 1731. The distinctive tower top was constructed in 1899 by Johann Wunibald Deininger. However, the 20th century brought challenges such as the closure of the monastery by the National Socialist regime in 1938 and significant damage from an air raid in 1943 during World War II. Post-war reconstruction led to the re-establishment of the order and the establishment of Saint Josef parish in 1947, with further renovations in 1968 and 1990.
Architecturally, the church features a long, simple structure parallel to the street, with a retracted choir, a Baroque south tower, and a unique chapel bay window. The interior includes a three-bay hall covered with a stitch cap barrel, supported by slender stucco marble pilasters. Artistic elements include ceiling paintings and frescoes by Hans Andre from the mid-20th century, and a Walcker organ installed in 1976.
The Servite Church of Saint Josef remains a significant religious and historical site in Innsbruck, representing centuries of architectural development, artistic expression, and resilience in the face of challenges.
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Servitenkirche (Servite Church) on Map
Sight Name: Servitenkirche (Servite Church)
Sight Location: Innsbruck, Austria (See walking tours in Innsbruck)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Innsbruck, Austria (See walking tours in Innsbruck)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Innsbruck, Austria
Create Your Own Walk in Innsbruck
Creating your own self-guided walk in Innsbruck is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Innsbruck Introduction Walking Tour
Innsbruck is the capital of Tyrol, Austria. It lies in a broad valley on the river Inn, not far from the Brenner Pass. The name "Innsbruck" means "Bridge over the Inn." In the 4th century Romans established a military outpost there, calling it "Bridge over the Oeni" ("Oeni Pontum" in Latin).
In 1180 the Counts of Andechs took over the town. The Brenner... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.8 Km or 1.1 Miles
In 1180 the Counts of Andechs took over the town. The Brenner... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.8 Km or 1.1 Miles
Innsbruck's Architectural Jewels
Coveted by empires, republics and ruling dynasties over the centuries, Innsbruck has been a living treasure house of history and culture. Undoubtedly this is one of Europe's most idyllic cities, nestled amid the craggy peaks in the heart of the Austrian Alps. Innsbruck equally scores as an Alpine playground and a showcase for Hapsburg imperial heritage, and is famous for its ancient,... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.4 Km or 0.9 Miles
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.4 Km or 0.9 Miles