Erected in the late 19th century, the Rudolfsheimer Pfarrkirche Maria Königin der Märtyrer stands before us. Its history intertwines with Vienna’s rapid growth. It is a prominent landmark in the 15th district.
Cardinal Josef Othmar von Rauscher decided to establish a new parish in 1875. The western suburbs experienced a population boom. A suitable plot on the Schmelz was acquired. This was for the construction of a church and rectory. Kaiser Franz Joseph himself attended the groundbreaking ceremony on September 27, 1893. Cardinal Anton Gruscha officiated.
After six years of construction, the new church was consecrated on November 21, 1899. The Rudolfsheimer Pfarrkirche Maria Königin der Märtyrer was meant to be a memorial. It honored Crown Prince Rudolf. The district carries his name.
Like many Viennese churches of the 19th century, it embraces the neo-Gothic style. The spacious interior has three naves and harmonious decor. Josef Reich created the three-part high altar. It depicts scenes related to the church’s patron saint. The main image shows Mary as Queen of Martyrs. Saints Peter and Stephen flank her. The stone pulpit with its wooden canopy deserves special mention. It mirrors the Sacred Heart altar.
The electro-pneumatic organ was installed in 1903. It is known for its powerful sound. During World War I, four of the five bronze bells were confiscated. This was a great loss for the community. In 1921, four new bells were consecrated.
Japanese tourists often mistake it for St Stephen’s Cathedral. They view it from the Gloriette via Schönbrunn. The Rudolfsheimer Pfarrkirche Maria Königin der Märtyrer offers church tours in Japanese.
The Rudolfsheimer Pfarrkirche Maria Königin der Märtyrer suffered heavy damage during World War II. Bombs struck on February 21, 1945. The stained-glass windows were destroyed. The windows in the apse remained intact. The church’s 76-meter-high tower is still visible. It has five bells. Extensive renovations took place from 1964 to 1966. The last war damages were removed.
In 2016, the parish of St. Anton was dissolved. Its territory was assigned to Rudolfsheimer Pfarrkirche. The territories of Neufünfhaus and Schönbrunn-Vorpark followed in the next year. The new parish became Hildegard Burjan. The Rudolfsheimer Kirche serves as its main church.
Today the Rudolfsheimer Pfarrkirche Maria Königin der Märtyrer is more than a historical landmark. It is a vibrant hub. German, Croatian, Albanian, Tamil, Ethiopian, and Filipino Catholics celebrate their faith here. The church extends a warm welcome to all. The church is open daily.