Saint Acacius Church (Schladming)

Nestled in the picturesque town of Schladming, Austria, the Saint Acacius Church, known locally as Pfarrkirche Schladming, stands as a testament to centuries of history and architectural beauty. This remarkable church not only serves as a spiritual haven but also as a historical landmark that has witnessed the ebb and flow of religious and cultural shifts over the ages.

The Historical Tapestry of Saint Acacius Church

The origins of Saint Acacius Church trace back to the medieval era, with its dedication to Saint Acacius of Armenia hinting at a foundation during the time of the Crusades in the 12th or 13th century. The church was first consecrated in 1299 as a branch of the parish church in Haus im Ennstal. It played a pivotal role in the early Reformation, hosting Protestant services as early as 1522, led by Saxon miners who had settled in the area. However, these services ceased around 1600 due to the Counter-Reformation, and it wasn't until 1857 that the church was elevated to the status of an independent parish.

Architectural Marvels

The architecture of Saint Acacius Church is a stunning blend of history and artistry. Constructed between 1522 and 1532 by the Admont Bauhütte, the church is a fine example of late Gothic design. It is the oldest surviving Protestant church structure in Styria, showcasing a three-aisled, five-bay hall church layout with a prominent west tower. The original steep Gothic spire was replaced with an onion dome after a fire in 1741, giving the church its distinctive silhouette.

One of the architectural highlights is the ambulatory, which is uniquely designed with five sides of a dodecagon, drawing inspiration from other notable churches such as the pilgrimage church Maria Pöllauberg and the parish church in Rottenmann. The interior is adorned with ribbed vaults supported by round pillars, featuring an intricate painted eight-pointed star configuration that captures the eye and imagination.

Rich and Diverse Interior

Inside, the church boasts a wealth of artistic treasures. Among its most notable features is the late Gothic pulpit adorned with fish bladder ornamentation, and an octagonal baptismal font crafted from red marble in 1571. The church also houses the epitaph of Matthias von Katzpeck, depicting Jacob's Ladder, and the gravestone of Michael von Katzpeck, illustrating the Resurrection of Christ.

The baroque period brought further embellishments, including the high altar created by Peter Hafner between 1702 and 1704, which prominently features Saint Acacius. The altar is flanked by statues of the apostles Peter and Paul, and the evangelists John and John the Baptist, sculpted by Martin Neuberg from Admont. The northern altar, dedicated to the Coronation of Mary, showcases Saint Luke in the upper image, accompanied by statues of Saints Nicholas and Florian by the Judenburg sculptor Balthasar Prandstätter. The southern side altar is a Rosary altar, adding to the church's spiritual and artistic richness.

The Enchanting Sound of Bells and Organ

The church's musical heritage is equally impressive. The organ, originally built by Rudolf Rabolt in 1671, was replaced by Matthäus Mauracher in 1862 with a new instrument featuring a Gothic-style facade. Recently restored by Walter Vonbank in 2020/21, the organ continues to fill the church with its harmonious melodies.

The church bells have a storied past as well. After the original bells were lost to a fire in 1741, new ones were crafted in the early 19th century, only to be confiscated during World War I. The current set, acquired between 1918 and 1947, includes a bell from a secularized Capuchin monastery in Bruck an der Mur, cast in 1711.

A Journey Through Time

Visiting Saint Acacius Church is like stepping into a living history book, where each stone and artifact tells a story of faith, resilience, and artistic achievement. Whether you are drawn by its historical significance, architectural beauty, or spiritual ambiance, the church offers a captivating experience that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.

In conclusion, Saint Acacius Church is not just a place of worship but a cultural gem that embodies the rich tapestry of Schladming's history. Its walls echo with the stories of the past, inviting visitors to explore and reflect on the enduring legacy of this remarkable church.