Dating back to the late 18th century, the Pfarrkirche Maria Schnee stands as a testament to faith. It embodies architectural grace in Wiener Neudorf. We are standing before a house of worship with a rich tapestry of history. This Pfarrkirche Maria Schnee holds stories within its walls.
The church’s origins trace back to 1777. Its construction followed the plans of architect Franz Sebastian Rosenstingl. Josef Meissl the Elder oversaw the execution. By 1780, the early Classicist central building was consecrated. In 1783, it officially became the Pfarrkirche Maria Schnee.
Notice the westward orientation. This is a unique feature of the Pfarrkirche Maria Schnee. The structure presents a harmonious blend of architectural styles. A central, square crossing supports a hanging dome. Short transepts extend from a tall nave.
Originally, there were plans for a campanile. Instead, a tower was added in 1871. It was renovated in 1960. The tower now features a bell-shaped roof. Look at the Tuscan columns supporting the organ loft. They add a touch of classical elegance.
Inside Pfarrkirche Maria Schnee, the Classicist stucco work and furnishings remain. They date back to the time of construction. Admire the high altar. Ignaz Unterberger, a Viennese academic painter, created its altarpiece. It depicts the Madonna della Neve. Angels carry the image of Maria Schnee. Marble columns frame the scene. A low balustrade separates the altar area from the main church space.
Two side altars flank the high altar. Hubert Mauer painted their images in 1780 and 1781. The left image portrays the four Doctors of the Church. They are Ambrosius, Augustinus, Hieronymus, and Pope Gregory the Great. The Lamb of God rests on a book sealed with seven seals. Pope Gregory the Great bears the likeness of Cardinal Migazzi.
The right image captures the death of Saint Theresa. Apostles Peter and Paul surround her. The artist immortalized Maria Theresa. She was the benefactor of the Cardinal in Saint Theresa’s face.
Johann Wiest, a Viennese organ builder, built the organ in 1787. It has twelve registers. They are distributed across the manual and pedal.
In 1959, the Pfarrkirche Maria Schnee gained its current tower. It also has new bells. The parish installed a small tower with two bells in 1871. Before that, the bells in the tower of St. Wolfgang’s Church were rung.
The two-story cubic rectory stands south of the church. It features a slightly protruding central projection. A hip roof crowns the structure. The inscription “Christopherus Cardinalis de Migazzi 1785 FF” marks the building.
A connecting wall links the Pfarrkirche Maria Schnee and the rectory. It was built in 1935. Architect Wolf designed it as a triumphal arch with two pointed archways. Later, they added plaques to the war memorial. These honored those who fell in the Second World War.
The Pfarrkirche Maria Schnee underwent general renovation in 2000 and 2001. In September 2001, the new people’s altar was consecrated.
The history of Pfarrkirche Maria Schnee includes a papal visit. Pope Pius VI and Emperor Joseph II visited in March 1782. This marked the first and only papal visit to Wiener Neudorf.
Today, Pfarrkirche Maria Schnee remains a vital part of Wiener Neudorf. It is a testament to enduring faith. It is a cultural landmark. Its doors are open. They welcome all who seek solace and inspiration.