In a city like Vienna with dozens of super famous churches, an interesting building like St. Josef 's in Margareten stands completely under the radar. But these rarely visited churches in such an historic city can also hold many stories. And each in their own way tries to fit in with the needs of the present day.
I see St. Josef's on the Schönbrunnerstraße in Margareten everyday - well because I live around the corner and I can't even walk to the Underground without noticing it's shining yellow walls or lofty tower soaring to the skies. Occasionally I attend an arts performance there like I recently did for a modern dance performance. Their organ recitals are also well worth it. How about an historical tidbit? This is the Church where Franz Schubert's funeral was held when he died so tragically in 1828. Inscribed above its front doors are the oft-read words asking consolation for the poor, an admonition for the rich, and everyone to seek healing.
Diagonal from the church is Werkzeug H - one of the great High Temples in Vienna to Boboism. How cool is it to sit drinking beer in Werkzeug H's Schanigarten and be able to glimpse old St. Josef's Church. This juxtaposition of eras and institutions is at the core of what propels Vienna forward in the 21st century! read more