Votivkirche

The Votivkirche (English: Votive Church) is a neo-Gothic style church located on the Ringstraße in Vienna, Austria. Its history is closely tied to a significant event: the attempted assassination of Emperor Franz Joseph in 1853 by a Hungarian nationalist named János Libényi.

Here’s the fascinating story behind the Votivkirche:

1. Assassination Attempt:

   • On February 18, 1853, Emperor Franz Joseph was in residence at the Hofburg Palace in Vienna. During his regular afternoon walks along the old fortifications, he was attacked from behind by János Libényi, who stabbed him in the collar with a knife.
   • Fortunately, the Emperor’s life was spared because the blow was deflected by the heavy golden covering embroidered on his stiff collar. However, he was left bleeding from a deep wound.
   • A civilian passer-by named Dr. Joseph Ettenreich came to the Emperor’s aid, and Count Maximilian Karl Lamoral O’Donnell von Tyrconnell struck down Libényi with his sabre. Libényi was later executed for attempted regicide.
   • Dr. Ettenreich, who bravely overwhelmed the attacker, was elevated to nobility by Franz Joseph and became Joseph von Ettenreich. Count O’Donnell also received honors for his actions.

2. Gratitude and Fundraising:

   • In gratitude for the Emperor’s survival, Franz Joseph’s brother, Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian, initiated a campaign to create a church dedicated to thanking God.
   • The church was named the Votivkirche (Votive Church), and funds for its construction were solicited from throughout the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
   • Construction began in 1856, and the church was finally dedicated in 1879 on the silver anniversary of Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth.
   • The Votivkirche stands as a symbol of gratitude and unity, commemorating the Emperor’s survival and the bravery of those who protected him.

3. Architectural Details:

   • Designed by architect Heinrich von Ferstel, the Votivkirche features neo-Gothic elements.
   • Notable features include:
     • Twin spires rising to a height of 99 meters (325 feet).
     • Painted ceiling arches and stained glass windows that adorn the interior.
     • The church’s dimensions: 85 meters (279 feet) long, 55 meters (180 feet) wide, and 30 meters (98 feet) wide in the nave.

4. Legacy and Changing Times:

   • The Votivkirche served as a powerful symbol of the Austro-Hungarian Empire’s unity during the late 19th century.
   • However, as opinions shifted and the idea of total Austrian hegemony over a diverse empire lost appeal, the church’s historical gravitas changed.
   • Nevertheless, the Votivkirche remains an architectural marvel and a testament to the events that shaped Vienna’s cityscape.

For more information, you can visit the official website of Votivkirche. The church stands as a reminder of both historical events and the enduring power of gratitude and faith.