Votivkirche

There was an assassination attempt on Emperor Franz Joseph in 1853. To thank God for his survival, his brother, Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian (who became the emperor of Mexico about a decade later) initiated a campaign to raise money to build a church. The church was dedicated in 1879 on the anniversary of Emperor Joseph and his wife Elizabeth (also known as Sissi and much loved in Hungary). Alas, Maximilian did not live to see this happen since he was killed in Mexico in 1867.

But, thanks to his efforts, we have this fine church to visit today.

Unlike some of the churches from the 19th century (St. Stephen's in Budapest most notably) this one is not over the top in gold and baroque ornamentation. Yet, it is a handsome church, filled with lots of gothic features.

The paintings in the ceiling are hard to make out, they are so far away. Yet it is an impressive space. A raft of stained glass bathing the interior with light brings the warmth of a summer's day inside.

As you see in the lower part of the image below, there is scaffolding erected inside for repairs. Yet, there is still plenty of parts to admire.