Imagine stepping into a time capsule, transported to the year 1460. This is where the story of Pfarrkirche St. Vitus begins. It stands proudly in Kritzendorf, a small village outside the bustle of Vienna. The church was built between two separate villages, Ober- and Unterkritzendorf, and was finally finished in 1477 – a significant landmark in the history of both villages.
The Pfarrkirche St. Vitus showcases a blend of architectural styles, mainly late Gothic. Picture its tall, slender spire – it was added in the late 19th century, making the tower even more imposing. The spire was adorned with a pointy helmet, adding to its majestic character. The church’s entrance is framed by two beautiful Baroque statues from the 18th century. Can you guess who they represent? One is St. Anthony of Padua, the other the martyr St. John of Nepomuk.
The interior is a symphony of simplicity, boasting a folk altar, a hanging crucifix, and a cheerful, flexible seating arrangement. In the midst of its beauty lies a baptismal font, embedded into the floor, in the shape of a cross. This special feature was added during the church’s restoration in 1994, preserving its historical significance while enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
Looking up, your eye is drawn to a captivating stained-glass window in the apse, a masterpiece crafted by Carl Geyling, a renowned glass and landscape painter. The window depicts the captivating story of three martyrs: St. Vitus, being boiled in oil, his tutor Modestus, and his nurse Crescentia. These three figures stand against a background of the village’s coat of arms and wine-growing implements. The church’s history is intrinsically woven into the fabric of the community, and the beautifully detailed window is a testament to that.
Behind the church lies its cemetery, a tranquil place where memories are preserved. It’s also home to a unique mosaic known as the “Kriegsfürsorgemosaic,” a rare form of war memorials.
So, as you stand before Pfarrkirche St. Vitus, remember that its walls have witnessed centuries of history, devotion, and change. This church is a reminder of the enduring power of faith and the profound significance of preserving our heritage.