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Church of Saint Charles

church, Vienna, Austria
Also known as: Church of Saint Charles Borromeo, Karlskirche

Quick Summary

The Church of Saint Charles, also known as Karlskirche, is a prominent Baroque church in Vienna, Austria. It was built between 1716 and 1739 by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach and completed by his son, Joseph Emanuel Fischer von Erlach. The church was commissioned by Emperor Charles VI as a vow to St. Charles Borromeo for saving the city from the plague.123

The church features a grand, symmetrical facade with a portico and two freestanding columns that are unique, carved with scenes from the saint's life. Its design incorporates elements from various architectural styles, including ancient Roman and Baroque influences, aiming to create a visually unified and impressive structure. The Karlskirche is considered a significant landmark in Vienna and a notable example of Baroque architecture.213

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