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Greek Orthodox Church
Vienna
Only in the late 18th century the Habsburgs, who were thoroughly Catholic, allowed churches of other denominations to be built. Protestants and Orthodox Christians churches as well as synagogues were built, but with one condition: churches had to have plain facades; according to law, non-Catholic churches (and synagogues) were not to be recognized as religious buildings from the outside. Only in the 19th century were these strict regulations released and the Greek Orthodox church was modernized and transformed into a 'proper' and outstandingly beautiful work of art.
The famous Ringstraße architect Theophil Hansen designed a new historicist face and new interiors for the Griechenkirche - in the style of a Byzantine church. A wealthy Greek-Viennese banker donated a large amount of money for the construction of the church. Since 1963, the Griechenkirche is home to the local Metropolite of Vienna, as well as a Greek school and a library. As common with Orthodox churches, the entrance area of the church is separated from the congregation space; the over-all impression is dark and mystic!
Next to it: try the famous Griechenbeisl - the best Greek restaurant in town!
