St Andra (Lienz) torre campanaria
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St Andrä Parish Church

4.8
·47 reviews·Lienz, Austria

Step into centuries of history at St. Andrä Parish Church, Lienz's oldest sacred site, featuring ancient frescoes and historical tombs.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Pleasantly cool inside

CrowdLow
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St Andra (Lienz) torre campanaria

St Andrä Parish Church

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Pleasantly cool inside

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into centuries of history at St. Andrä Parish Church, Lienz's oldest sacred site, featuring ancient frescoes and historical tombs.

4.8
(47 reviews)

"Touching the walls, you immediately sense the history and centuries this place of worship has experienced."

Vertical photo
TIP

Feel the History

Touch the ancient walls to sense centuries of history. It's a truly moving experience. :handpointingup:

Escape the Heat

Enjoy the natural coolness inside during summer. A perfect respite from the heat. :snowflake:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Expulsion from Paradise Frescoes

Expulsion from Paradise Frescoes

Interior

Marvel at ancient frescoes dating back to 1300, depicting a pivotal biblical scene with striking detail.

Tombs of Counts and Nobles

Tombs of Counts and Nobles

Interior

Pay respects at the final resting place of historical figures like Leonhard von Görz, adding a layer of historical gravitas.

Albin Egger-Lienz Memorial Chapel

Albin Egger-Lienz Memorial Chapel

Exterior

Explore the unique memorial chapel featuring the only frescoes ever painted by the renowned artist Albin Egger-Lienz.

Gothic Bas-Relief

Gothic Bas-Relief

Interior

Admire a marvelous Gothic bas-relief of the Madonna and Child with Saint Anne, a stunning piece of art from 1515.

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Step Back in Time

Feel the weight of centuries by touching the ancient walls. This historic church, with roots stretching back to the 5th century, offers a profound connection to the past. Discover the resting places of historical figures and admire art spanning hundreds of years.

Cool Sanctuary

Escape the summer heat in this remarkably cool interior. The thick stone walls provide a natural respite, making it a perfect place for quiet contemplation even on the warmest days. Enjoy the spiritual atmosphere without the discomfort of the heat.

Best Times

When
Summer afternoons
Why
Pleasantly cool inside
Crowd
Low
When
Anytime
Why
Rich history and art
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Feel the History

Touch the ancient walls to sense centuries of history. It's a truly moving experience. :handpointingup:

Escape the Heat

Enjoy the natural coolness inside during summer. A perfect respite from the heat. :snowflake:

Discover Hidden Art

Look for unique frescoes and art, including the works of Albin Egger-Lienz. :art:

Quiet Contemplation

Experience a deeply spiritual and peaceful atmosphere. :pray:

Tips

from all over the internet

Feel the History

Touch the ancient walls to sense centuries of history. It's a truly moving experience. :handpointingup:

Escape the Heat

Enjoy the natural coolness inside during summer. A perfect respite from the heat. :snowflake:

Discover Hidden Art

Look for unique frescoes and art, including the works of Albin Egger-Lienz. :art:

Quiet Contemplation

Experience a deeply spiritual and peaceful atmosphere. :pray:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(47 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise St. Andrä Parish Church for its profound sense of history and deeply moving spiritual atmosphere. The cool interior during summer is a significant plus, and the ancient frescoes and historical tombs are highlighted as particularly impressive. Some may find it a quiet, contemplative experience rather than a bustling attraction.

"An incredibly impressive and very old church 🙏✨. Just by touching the walls, you immediately sense the history and the centuries that this place of worship has experienced 🕰️. It's particularly touching that the last Counts of Lienz found their final resting place here – this lends the place a very special dignity.

The interior of the church is simply beautiful 😍: very solemn, inspiring, and full of a spiritual atmosphere that moves you deeply 💫. Every glance upwards or at the ornate details fills you with awe and inner peace. Another great advantage: In summer, it's pleasantly cool inside 🌿❄️, which makes the visit even more relaxing and enjoyable.

A place you absolutely have to see and experience when you're in Lienz! 🌟"

Anna Fominska

"PARISH CHURCH OF ST. ANDREW

Thanks to archaeological excavations, we now know that a sacred building existed on this site as early as the 5th century—from which the priests' bench with remains from the Roman era was uncovered. The Church of St. Andrew was first mentioned in documents in the 10th century.
The construction was supported by the Patriarch of Aquileia, and three further expansions were carried out in the following centuries.

Frescoes: The Expulsion from Paradise
Inside, we find elements from different periods. The oldest frescoes date back to 1300 and depict the Expulsion from Paradise. There are also frescoes from the 13th and 14th centuries. The most recent depictions, dating back to 1761, show St. Andrew as the intercessor of the city of Lienz and bearer of the Cross.

Also noteworthy is the 1618 organ, built by the Passau master Andreas Butz. Fifty percent of the pipes still date back to the construction period.

Historically significant are the tombs of the last Count of Gorizia, Leonhard von Görz, and of Michael von Wolkenstein and his wife Barbara von Thun.

The unique frescoes by the painter Albin Egger-Lienz
The memorial chapel outside the parish church is not only a memorial to the fallen, but—at his express request—the final resting place of Albin Egger-Lienz. The frescoes inside the memorial chapel were the only ones he ever painted."

kalloso

"This is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful churches in Lienz: located on a hill, it preserves valuable works of art, including several frescoes dating back to the late 1400s, such as the Adoration of the Magi (1480), a marvelous Gothic bas-relief depicting the Madonna and Child with Saint Anne (1515), and a valuable organ said to be the oldest in Tyrol.
Also noteworthy are the two tombstones in red Salzburg marble.
A visit is highly recommended."

Andrea Macherelli Bianchini

What People Like

Incredible sense of history
Deeply spiritual atmosphere
Pleasantly cool interior

What People Dislike

Can be very quiet

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The church is located about 1 km from the central Hauptplatz, on the other bank of the Isel River. It's a pleasant walk, or you can consider a short taxi ride. It's also situated near the cemetery, just outside the main city center. Reddit

While specific parking details aren't widely mentioned, its location near the cemetery suggests some parking might be available in that vicinity. It's best to check local signage upon arrival or consider walking from the city center. Reddit

Given its proximity to the city center and cemetery, local bus routes might serve the area. It's advisable to check local Lienz public transport schedules for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the church is generally free, as it is a place of worship. However, donations are often appreciated to help with the upkeep of this historic site. Reddit

Specific opening hours can vary, but churches are typically open during daylight hours for visitors. It's recommended to visit during the day to fully appreciate the interior and artwork. Reddit

The memorial chapel is usually accessible as part of the church grounds. While no specific fee is mentioned, donations are always welcome to support the preservation of these significant artworks. Reddit

Visitors are generally welcome to explore the church outside of scheduled service times. If a service is in progress, it's respectful to observe quietly or visit at another time. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Don't miss the ancient frescoes, particularly the 'Expulsion from Paradise' from 1300. Also, look for the tombs of historical figures like Leonhard von Görz and the Gothic bas-relief of the Madonna and Child with Saint Anne. Reddit

Yes, visitors frequently mention that the church remains pleasantly cool inside during the summer months, offering a welcome escape from the heat. Reddit

This is the oldest church in Lienz, with evidence of a sacred building on site from the 5th century. It was first documented in the 10th century and has undergone several expansions, housing significant historical tombs and art. Reddit

The small cemetery adjacent to the church is noted for its unusual frescoes decorating the back of the tombs, adding a curious artistic element to the site. Reddit

The church features frescoes from various periods, including the 13th, 14th, and late 15th centuries, as well as a 1761 depiction of St. Andrew. You'll also find a Gothic bas-relief and the unique frescoes in the memorial chapel. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always best to be discreet and respectful, especially during services. Avoid using flash, as it can damage delicate artworks and disturb the atmosphere. Reddit

Focus on capturing the intricate details of the frescoes, the Gothic bas-relief, and the historical tombs. The play of light and shadow within the ancient architecture can also create dramatic shots. Reddit

The church's location on a hill offers picturesque views. The exterior architecture itself, especially the memorial chapel, is also worth photographing. The nearby cemetery with its unique tomb decorations can also be a subject. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While St. Andrä Parish Church is a place of historical and spiritual significance, it can still be an engaging visit for families. The sheer age of the building and the stories behind the tombs can spark curiosity in children. The cool interior is a welcome bonus on hot days, making it a comfortable stop. Encourage them to look for the different figures in the frescoes and imagine life centuries ago. The nearby cemetery, with its uniquely decorated tombs, might also pique their interest. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For those fascinated by history, St. Andrä Parish Church is a must-visit. Its 5th-century origins and 10th-century documentation make it one of the oldest continuously used sacred sites in the region. Explore the tombs of significant historical figures like Leonhard von Görz and Michael von Wolkenstein. The layers of art and architecture, from Roman-era finds to medieval frescoes and later additions, offer a rich tapestry of historical periods to uncover. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

Art lovers will find much to admire within St. Andrä Parish Church. The ancient frescoes, particularly the 'Expulsion from Paradise,' are remarkable examples of medieval art. The Gothic bas-relief is another highlight, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship. Don't miss the unique frescoes in the Albin Egger-Lienz Memorial Chapel, the artist's only fresco work, which adds a significant modern art element to the historical context. The well-preserved organ is also an artistic marvel. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Time: The History of St. Andrä Parish Church

The St. Andrä Parish Church in Lienz is a testament to centuries of history, with its origins tracing back to a sacred building on the site as early as the 5th century. First mentioned in documents in the 10th century, the church has undergone significant expansions and renovations throughout the Middle Ages and beyond. Archaeological excavations have even uncovered remains from the Roman era, highlighting the site's long-standing importance. This deep historical layering is palpable as you walk through its ancient stone walls. Reddit

Artistic Treasures Within

Inside St. Andrä Parish Church, visitors are treated to a rich collection of art spanning several centuries. The oldest frescoes date back to 1300 and depict the 'Expulsion from Paradise,' offering a glimpse into medieval artistic expression. Other significant artworks include frescoes from the 13th and 14th centuries, as well as more recent depictions from 1761 showcasing St. Andrew. A particularly noteworthy piece is the Gothic bas-relief of the Madonna and Child with Saint Anne, dating from 1515. The church also boasts a valuable organ from 1618, with half its pipes still original. Reddit

The Legacy of Albin Egger-Lienz

A poignant addition to the church complex is the Albin Egger-Lienz Memorial Chapel, located just outside the main structure. This chapel serves as the final resting place for the renowned Tyrolean painter Albin Egger-Lienz, fulfilling his express wish. It is unique in that it houses the only frescoes ever painted by the artist. These powerful works add a significant artistic and emotional dimension to the site, making it a place of both historical reflection and artistic appreciation. Reddit

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