Envision Irish monks arriving here centuries ago. This is the Schottenstift, also known as the Abbey of the Scots.
Founded in 1155 by Henry II of Austria, this Catholic monastery has a fascinating story. Henry II sought Irish monks, known in German as “Schotten” or “Iroschotten”, for his new city of Vienna. However, they came from the Scots Monastery in Regensburg, Germany. The name “Schottenstift” reflects this connection to Irish monks.
Monasteries in the Middle Ages were more than just places of prayer. They were centers of knowledge and learning. The Schottenstift provided vital services to Vienna. These services included schools, libraries, hospices and educated men. The monks even got involved with the University of Vienna.
Construction of the first monastery buildings began around 1160. It was consecrated in 1200. The monastery was originally located outside Vienna’s city walls. Pilgrims and crusaders found refuge here.
The first church was built in the Romanesque style. Henry II was buried here in 1177. A fire in 1276 destroyed much of the original structure.
Duke Albert V seized the Schottenstift in 1418 during the Melker Reform. Benedictine monks replaced the Irish monks. Yet, they were still called “Schotten”.
Lightning struck the tower in 1638. This disaster led to a complete rebuilding of the church. Architects Andrea d’Allio the Younger and Silvestro Carlone led the project. Joachim von Sandrart created a new altarpiece. It is now in the prelates’ hall. The church was restored after a Turkish siege.
Johann Fux was the organist at the Schottenstift around 1700. A new priory and school were built in 1773-1774. It was nicknamed Schubladkastenhaus, meaning chest-of-drawers house.
The Schottengymnasium secondary school was founded in 1807. Renovations took place around 1830. Joseph Kornhäusel renovated the buildings near the Freyung. The church was restored again in the 1880s.
Inside the Schottenstift, you can find the Schottenmeisteraltar from around 1470. This artwork provides a glimpse into the history of Vienna.
Today, the Schottenstift stands as a testament to Vienna’s rich past. It embodies faith, learning, and the enduring legacy of the Irish monks who first arrived here so long ago.