Maria Saal Cathedral in Klagenfurt, Austria, is renowned for its stunning artwork. The cathedral, built in the late 15th century, is adorned with beautiful frescoes, sculptures, and paintings. The most famous of these is the “Last Judgment” fresco which was painted by the Italian artist, Giovanni Battista Tiepolo. Other notable works include the “Annunciation” by Giovanni Battista Piazzetta and the “Assumption of the Virgin” by Francesco de Mura.
2. Explore the Crypt
The crypt of Maria Saal Cathedral is a must-see for anyone visiting the cathedral. The crypt is home to the remains of many of the noble families who lived in the area. The crypt also contains the tombs of several bishops of Klagenfurt, including the first Bishop of Klagenfurt, Bishop Johann von Puchheim.
3. Climb the Tower
For those who are feeling adventurous, a climb up the tower of Maria Saal Cathedral is a must. The climb is not for the faint of heart, as the tower is more than 100 feet high. However, the views from the top are stunning and well worth the effort.
4. Check Out the Historical Relics
The cathedral is home to a number of historical relics, including a fragment of the True Cross, a relic of St. John the Baptist, and a relic of St. Catherine of Alexandria. The relics are kept in a special chapel which is open to visitors.
5. Attend a Service
Maria Saal Cathedral is an active Catholic church and services are held regularly. Visitors are welcome to attend the services and experience the beauty of the cathedral in a more spiritual setting.
6. Take a Guided Tour
The cathedral offers guided tours which are a great way to learn more about the history and art of the cathedral. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides and are available in a variety of languages.
7. Visit the Museum
The museum of Maria Saal Cathedral is a great way to learn more about the history of the cathedral and the city of Klagenfurt. The museum contains a variety of artifacts, including a copy of the original foundation document of the cathedral, a model of the cathedral, and a number of paintings and sculptures.
8. Admire the Windows
The stained glass windows of Maria Saal Cathedral are a sight to behold. The windows depict various scenes from the Bible and other religious stories. The windows were designed by the renowned glass artist, Josef Schöpf.
9. Attend a Concert
The acoustics of the cathedral make it an ideal venue for concerts. Every year, the cathedral hosts a number of classical music concerts, as well as occasional jazz and pop concerts.
10. Enjoy the Gardens
The gardens of Maria Saal Cathedral are a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city. The gardens are filled with a variety of plants and trees and are a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.