Pfarrkirche Maria im Dorn, also known as Pfarrkirche Feldkirchen, is a captivating historical gem nestled in the heart of Feldkirchen in Kärnten, Austria. This Roman Catholic parish church, dedicated to the Assumption of Mary, stands as a testament to centuries of architectural evolution and spiritual significance. Elevated slightly above the Tiebel River at the end of Kirchgasse, this church beckons visitors with its rich history and enchanting legends.
The origins of Pfarrkirche Maria im Dorn trace back to 1065/66 when a predecessor church was mentioned as a proprietary church of the Eppenstein family. The construction of the current structure began post-1166, and by 1258, Feldkirchen was officially recognized as a parish. Despite being fortified after the Turkish invasion of 1476, the church was captured by the Hungarians in 1480. Over the centuries, the church underwent numerous architectural transformations, evolving from a Romanesque pillar basilica to its present form.
One of the most enchanting tales associated with Pfarrkirche Maria im Dorn is the legend of the Thornbush. It is said that a shepherd, guided by a kneeling ox, discovered a Marian image in a thornbush. Attempts to move the image to St. Michael were thwarted when it miraculously reappeared in the bush the next day. This was seen as a divine sign to construct a church at this very location.
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The church's exterior is a fascinating blend of Romanesque and Gothic elements, with later Baroque additions. The five-story choir tower, originally Romanesque, was elevated in 1783 to its current height of 40 meters and crowned with a Baroque onion dome. The Gothic main choir, supported by buttresses, features pointed arch openings from its former defense level. The southern side boasts a Baroque porch with a wavy gable, showcasing a portal with a profiled pointed arch and Romanesque columns from the 13th century.
Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by a space that reflects centuries of architectural adaptation. The nave retains the proportions of a late Romanesque pillar basilica, with Gothic ribbed vaulting from the 15th century. The wooden organ gallery, added in 1991, houses a modern organ crafted by Tyrolean organ builder Martin Pflüger. The church's interior is a symphony of Romanesque arches, Gothic ribbed vaults, and Baroque embellishments, each telling a story of its own.
The walls of Pfarrkirche Maria im Dorn are adorned with remnants of frescoes dating back to the early 13th century, including depictions of the Lamb of God and the Majestas Domini. The southern choir wall features traces of a pre-1400 Three Kings procession and a mid-15th-century Passion cycle attributed to Master Friedrich of Villach.
The Baroque high altar, dating from 1738, is a majestic multi-columned wall altar with a freestanding mensa. It features a statue of the Madonna and Child, flanked by Saints Peter and Paul. The left side altar, originally a Gothic winged altar from around 1510/20, showcases modern representations of St. Francis, while the right side altar houses a replica of the Mariazell miraculous image.
Surrounding the church, the churchyard offers a serene resting place, echoing with stories of those who have come before. Visitors can also explore the charming town of Feldkirchen, with its picturesque landscapes and vibrant cultural heritage.
Pfarrkirche Maria im Dorn is not just a place of worship; it is a living museum of architectural and artistic heritage, a beacon of spiritual devotion, and a testament to the enduring power of faith and legend. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or a spiritual seeker, this church promises a journey through time and tradition that will leave a lasting impression.
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