Piarist church Krems

The Piarist church Krems, known locally as Piaristenkirche Krems, is a beacon of historical and architectural splendor nestled in the charming town of Krems an der Donau, Austria. This venerable edifice is not just a place of worship but a testament to the rich tapestry of history that has unfolded in this region over the centuries.

The Historical Tapestry of Piarist church Krems

The origins of the Piarist church Krems date back to the early 11th century. The church, originally dedicated to St. Stephen, the patron saint of the Diocese of Passau, was first mentioned in historical records in 1014. By 1158, it had become part of the Vienna Schottenstift, although its parish rights had already been transferred to the Church of St. Veit.

The church underwent significant transformations during the 15th century, transitioning from a Romanesque structure to a Gothic marvel under the guidance of Laurenz Spenning, the master builder of St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna. The construction of the choir, with its intricate rhombus net vault, was completed in 1457, followed by the three-aisled nave, which was consecrated in 1508. The church's architectural evolution continued with the addition of the nave vaults in the early 16th century, showcasing patterns similar to those found in the Graz Cathedral.

Jesuit Influence and Baroque Transformation

In 1616, the Jesuits took over the church, marking the beginning of a new chapter. They established a monastery and a gymnasium, although the iconic Frauenbergturm, crowned with four corner turrets, remained under the city's control as a watchtower. Interestingly, this tower is unique in Austria as it bears the city coat of arms instead of a cross at its pinnacle.

By 1776, the Piarist Order had replaced the Jesuits, continuing the tradition of educational and religious service in Krems. The church's interior underwent a Baroque transformation, adorned with numerous works by the renowned Austrian Baroque painter Martin Johann Schmidt, also known as Kremser Schmidt. His masterpieces include the high altarpiece depicting the Assumption of Mary (1756), the right side altar portraying St. Joseph Calasanz, and the altars along the nave walls featuring St. Joseph and St. Aloysius. The fresco at the entrance to the Franz-Xaver Chapel, added by the Jesuits in 1640, is another notable highlight.

The Iconic Frauenbergturm and Its Resonant Bell

The Frauenbergturm, with its origins in the early 13th century, stands as a sentinel over Krems. This tower, which was elevated in the 15th century and adorned with corner turrets, underwent further modifications during the Baroque period, including the enlargement of the bell chamber windows. The tower houses the Piaristenglocke, or Kremser Pummerin, a colossal bell cast in 1702 by Mathias Prininger. Weighing 5016 kg and with a diameter of 208 cm, this bell is the 18th largest in Austria and is rung manually five times a year, resonating with a deep g0+2 tone. The bell's inscription poetically declares its solemn purpose: See the bell I am / Never do I announce in vain / But war and joy / Thunder and fire as well as burial procession.

Adjacent to the tower entrance, embedded in the west wall of the church, is a poignant relic – a Jewish tombstone dedicated to Rabbi Nachlifa, who passed away around 1395. This stone, a silent witness to the town's turbulent history, was likely relocated in the 16th century when Hebrew was esteemed as the root of all languages.

The Crypt and Its Ossuary

Beneath the church lies a crypt, a somber repository of history. Here, approximately 30 cubic meters of bones from the former cemetery are stacked, and 68 burial niches are housed. This subterranean space offers a poignant reminder of the countless souls who have been part of Krems' long and storied past.

A Living Monument of Faith and History

Visiting the Piarist church Krems is like stepping into a living museum where every stone and artwork narrates a story. From its Romanesque roots and Gothic grandeur to its Baroque embellishments, the church encapsulates the essence of Krems' historical and cultural evolution. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a spiritual seeker, the Piarist church Krems offers a profound and enriching experience, making it a must-visit landmark in this picturesque Austrian town.