The square surrounding this iconic sacred building has, in recent years, evolved into a vibrant cultural hotspot. The church itself is now recognized as one of Vienna’s most exceptional concert venues. It has become a thriving center for the historical performance of works by Mozart — and, of course, Vivaldi!
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Vienna’s St. Charles Church – A Baroque Icon and Cultural Hotspot
St. Charles Church is one of those rare places in Vienna where history and modern life blend seamlessly.
A Monument of Gratitude After the Plague
Following the end of Vienna’s last major plague epidemic, Emperor Charles VI commissioned the construction of a church as an expression of gratitude.
The prestigious architectural competition was won by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach, who prevailed over renowned contenders such as Ferdinando Galli-Bibiena and Johann Lukas von Hildebrandt. Construction began in 1716 and was completed in 1737. Fischer von Erlach did not live to see its completion — he passed away in 1723. His son, Joseph Emanuel, carried on his legacy and oversaw the final stages of the project.
Vivaldi’s Final Resting Place
St. Charles Church was originally aligned along a direct visual axis with Vienna’s Hofburg Palace and served as the imperial parish church until 1918. It was near this very church that Antonio Vivaldi found his final resting place. In 1741, the exceptional composer was buried at the Spitaller Gottsacker, a cemetery that once stood nearby. Today, the main building of the Vienna University of Technology occupies that site. A simple stone plaque now commemorates the great composer.
At the Heart of High Culture
Take a glimpse inside St. Charles Church and experience the very essence of one of our concerts. A musical experience of the highest caliber — performed by one of the finest Baroque orchestras of the past 30 years, in one of Vienna’s most extraordinary venues.