Vienna: Architecture

    During our trip to Vienna, we visited many churches. Most of them were Baroque, known for their gaudy, "over-the-top" designs: copper domes with brightly painted cherubims inside, marble pillars with gold-coated capitols, etc. Essentially, if I had to sum it up, I'd just tell you that there's always a lot going on. They are very stunning but simultaneously overwhelming. 

   However, while I was in Vienna, I also got to visit the famous  Saint Stephens Cathedral, which is built in the Gothic style. My teacher told me that she doesn't like Gothic architecture as much as Baroque because it is much darker and more imposing. But personally, I was stunned by the simple beauty the geometric, vaulted ceilings inspired. 

   Where Baroque architecture tends to focus on intricate designs with paintings and sculptures decorating every inch, Gothic architecture seems to be more about the geometric articulation of the building. Beams crisscross across the high ceilings and the fluted columns melt together if you don't look too closely. 

   What was so striking about these different churches was that they both inspire a completely different feeling. The Baroque churches give the impression of trying to bring heaven down to earth. They are gaudy and self-glorifying. On the other hand, the Gothic church gave the impression that man was striving to reach heaven when he built it. 

   My friend articulated this idea very well when he pointed out that the Gothic church is impressive and beautiful when you look closely, but if you don't, the design is simple enough that it doesn't distract you from worship. 

   If those of you who are reading my blogs are not interested in hearing about these little observations I've been having while I am here, please let me know and I will focus more on talking about my life. :) 

KarlsKirche (I had to pull this photo from the web) 

   This is a good example of a Baroque church, although they are all highly stylistic and are not easily generalized. Regardless, this is the most popular Baroque church in Vienna

My photo of St. Stephens Cathedral. 

And here is an example of a Gothic church. Let me know which style you prefer. 


Comments

  1. JoybellNovember 8, 2024 at 6:36 PM

    Ooh, I think I like Baroque. And you blog about what you want to blog about. In the end, you'll be the one who cherishes this.

    ReplyDelete

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