St. Stephen’s Cathedral

St Stephen's Cathedral

The Vienna audio-guided tour reaches its highlight here: St Stephen's Cathedral, in German Stephansdom, which the Viennese affectionately call Steffel. Emblematic of the city, this Gothic masterpiece is a place of worship to be approached with respect and contemplation.

Eight centuries of history

What strikes first is its monumental size and its roof of multicoloured glazed tiles. 107 metres long, 34 metres wide, its south tower rises to 136 metres: it is the tallest religious monument in the city and the most important Gothic building in Austria. Its construction began in 1137; consecrated in 1147, it was enlarged the following century. It has seen great events unfold, from Mozart's wedding to Vivaldi's funeral, and has gone through many ordeals over the centuries.

What there is to see

The roof with its coloured tile patterns, the south tower, the vast Gothic nave and the rich liturgical furnishings make the cathedral famous. One can climb the towers for a panorama over the city and go down into the catacombs, a place of burial to be visited with gravity. The visit is made with respect for the place of worship and the services held there.

Practical information

St Stephen's Cathedral stands in the heart of the pedestrian city centre, on Stephansplatz. Access to the nave is generally free outside services; the tower climb, the catacombs and certain areas are ticketed, with hours varying by season. An active place of worship, the cathedral requires proper dress and silence.

How tall is the cathedral ?

Its south tower rises to 136 metres, making it the tallest religious monument in Vienna and the main Gothic building in Austria.

What does the nickname Steffel mean ?

It is the affectionate nickname given by the Viennese to the cathedral, meaning roughly little Stephen.