St. Stephen’s Cathedral
Stephansdom is Vienna’s vertical anchor. You see the roof before you see the walls—a massive, geometric zigzag of 230,000 glazed tiles forming the imperial double-headed eagle. It’s a 14th-century skyscraper that has survived wars, fires, and the weight of Austrian history.
The World Below
While the South Tower ("Steffl") dominates the skyline, the real drama is underground. The catacombs hold a hidden world: the remains of bishops, the internal organs of Habsburg royalty, and the bones of thousands of plague victims. It’s a silent, haunting city hidden right beneath the bustling Stephansplatz.
Gothic Mastery
Inside, the vast nave is illuminated by the soft light of centuries-old stained glass. Look for the "Pulpit of Anton Pilgram," a Late Gothic masterpiece where the stone seems to come alive. From the massive Pummerin bell in the North Tower to the intricately carved High Altar, every corner tells a story of resilience and faith.