Built from a former factory hall St Severin in Salzburg stands before you. This modern church is a testament to adaptation. It’s a story of transformation. A story of repurposing. In 1987 the parish of Gnigl bought a former Popp factory building. It was intended for youth work. The first service was held in 1997. St Severin officially became its own parish in 2001.
The building’s transformation was significant. From 2003 to 2006 architect Peter Schuh oversaw a complete renovation. The old factory was reborn. It became a parish center. It also became a church. The groundbreaking ceremony was on April 5 2003. On March 19 2006 the church bells rang for the first time. Archbishop Alois Kothgasser consecrated the altar on May 1 2006. St Severin became Salzburg’s newest parish in 2012.
The interior is fascinating. Rooms within the old factory were divided. These rooms became a sacristy and a chapel. The former office and residential building was also repurposed. It now houses group and seminar rooms. A large foyer a parish hall offices and three apartments were added. St Severin is more than just a church. It’s a community center. It’s home to a music group a youth club and scouts. It serves all residents of Langwied and Sam.
The church’s organ is a unique piece of history. In 2011 a used organ was purchased. It has 18 registers. It came from the deconsecrated St Elisabeth Church in Riegelsberg. It was built by Hugo Mayer in 1975. The organ’s journey from Saarland to Salzburg was carefully planned. It was adapted and installed. On March 18 2012 Father Peter Larisch blessed the organ. Domorganist Heribert Metzger performed works by Muffat Reger and Bach.
St Severin is a testament to community spirit. It’s a vibrant space. It’s also a place of worship. It’s a symbol of adaptation and renewal. It showcases how something old can be transformed. It can become something beautiful and meaningful. It transformed a factory into a focal point for the community. This is the heart of St Severin. This is its legacy.