Triangle motifs echo throughout the Evangelische Kreuzkirche Hietzing. It subtly nods to the neo-gothic style. The style strongly influenced church architecture in Vienna.
The Kreuzkirche stands on Cumberlandstrasse in Vienna’s 14th district Penzing. The Kreuzkirche is a Lutheran church. This area belonged to the 13th district until 1938. The church’s parish is still named after Hietzing.
Architect Theophil Niemann designed the Kreuzkirche. He constructed it between 1930 and 1931. Niemann was himself a Protestant. The Kreuzkirche’s symmetrical facade features a small bell tower. The facade shows neo-Gothic influences through its triangular forms.
Inside, Erwin Schneider shaped the church’s design. Schneider served as the pastor during its construction. The Kreuzkirche’s windows depict Martin Luther. They also show Philipp Melanchthon and Johann Sebastian Bach. These windows are based on Schneider’s designs. Ferdinand Opitz created the carved depictions of the Evangelists on the pulpit. Two wall paintings copy Albrecht Dürer’s “The Four Apostles”.
Originally, plans included a church for the western districts in Hietzing around 1913. World War I delayed the project. The Kreuzkirche finally opened its doors.
Franz Schmidt, a composer, provided his house organ. It served as the church’s musical instrument from 1934. Julius Peter was the cantor from 1938 to 1972. He directed many concerts including those of the Bachgemeinde Wien. Norbert Zeilberger inaugurated a new organ in 1997. He served as the organist here from 1994 to 2006.
In Austrian Protestant church architecture the Kreuzkirche stands out. Along with the Verklärungskirche and Zwinglikirche, it marks a shift. It moves away from traditional church layouts. The Kreuzkirche emphasizes functionality.
The Kreuzkirche’s understated facade blends tradition with modernity. This reflects historical restrictions on Protestant church construction. They were often built on side streets and in the style of regular houses.
Today, the Evangelische Kreuzkirche Hietzing continues its mission. It holds regular services. The community hosts various events. It remains a significant landmark. The Kreuzkirche is more than just a regular church. It represents a blend of history, art, and faith. It provides a welcoming space for its parish.