Nikolai-Kirche in Villach

The Nikolai-Kirche in Villach, known locally as Nikolaikirche Villach, is a splendid example of neo-Gothic architecture, nestled in the charming town of Villach in Austria. This Roman Catholic church, managed by the local Franciscan monastery, stands as a testament to the town's rich history and religious heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into the past while providing a serene space for contemplation and worship.

The History of Nikolai-Kirche in Villach

The origins of the Nikolai-Kirche trace back to 1309, when the parish of St. Nicholas was first mentioned. The initial church, however, was located southeast of the current site in Trattengasse. The parish, which covered the area north of the Drau River, was part of the Diocese of Laibach from 1461 to 1751.

The Counter-Reformation brought significant changes to Villach. In 1627, Capuchin monks were invited to the town and between 1629 and 1633, they built a church dedicated to St. Louis and a Capuchin monastery at the current site of the Nikolai-Kirche. The construction was funded by Anna Maria Proy and Countess Ursula von Thannhausen. Unfortunately, an earthquake in 1690 caused severe damage to the buildings, which were repaired the following year.

In 1786, a devastating fire ravaged the Capuchin church, the monastery library, and the St. Nicholas church. Consequently, the Capuchin church became the new parish seat of St. Nicholas. The Capuchin monastery was dissolved the following year, and the church was converted into a parish church. A three-story west tower with an onion dome was added, and parts of the monastery were demolished.

In 1886, the parish was handed over to the Franciscans, who built a new Franciscan monastery incorporating the former Capuchin rectory. The old monastery was demolished in 1888 and replaced with a new building. The former Capuchin church was also torn down and replaced with the neo-Gothic Nikolai-Kirche, designed by Peter Hüter and Father Johann Maria Reiter from Tyrol, and consecrated in 1896. The church was elevated to the status of city parish in 1906.

World War II brought further destruction to the church, with significant damage from bombings. The windows and roof were replaced in 1945. Subsequent restorations took place in 1967, 1984, and 1995, and in 1981, the crypt was adapted for liturgical use.

Architectural Features

The Nikolai-Kirche is a neo-Gothic pillar basilica with a transept and a two-bay choir ending in a 3/8 closure. The exterior is characterized by plastered quoining on the buttresses, building edges, and windows, set against a smooth plaster surface. The main facade features a three-axis loggia under a pent roof and a three-part tracery window. The gable zone houses a niche with a statue of the Immaculate Mary. The four-story tower at the southwest corner has diagonal buttresses and a steep spire. On the north side of the church is the Francis Chapel with a 5/8 closure. The choir adjoins the monastery.

The nave, with its ribbed vaulting, has a two-story elevation without a triforium. The crossing, with chamfered pointed arches, is about a meter higher than the nave. The transept is the same height as the nave. The side aisles open to the nave and transepts with pointed arch arcades. The recessed choir is elevated by three steps. On the north side of the choir is the John Chapel with a ribbed vault.

Six large wall paintings above the pointed arch arcades in the nave depict scenes from the childhood of Jesus, painted in 1895 by Emanuel Walch in the Nazarene style.

Interior and Furnishings

The main altar and the two side altars, crafted in 1896 by Clemens Raffeiner based on designs by Father Johann Maria Reiter, are notable features of the church's interior. The high altar is a winged altar with a shrine containing a statue of St. Nicholas and four relief panels depicting scenes from the life of St. Francis, carved by Josef Bachleitner in 1896. The weekday side of the altar wings features scenes from the life of St. Virgilius on the left and the death of St. Rupertus on the right.

The Marian altar houses a statue of the Immaculate Mary in its niche, with relief depictions of scenes from the life of the Evangelist John and shepherd scenes on the wings. The Joseph altar features a statue of St. Joseph with the Child between sculptures of Saints Pascal and John Capistranus. The carved Stations of the Cross from 1896 are the work of Franz Schmalzl from Gröden.

The Organ

The organ, built by the organ builder Pirchner, is a notable feature of the church. This slider chest instrument has 25 registers on two manuals and a pedal, with mechanical playing and register actions. The couplings include II/I, I/P, and II/P.

Visiting the Nikolai-Kirche in Villach is a journey through centuries of history, art, and architecture. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a moment of peace, this church offers a rich and rewarding experience. Its neo-Gothic splendor and historical significance make it a must-visit landmark in the heart of Villach.