After successful completion of the course, students are able to critically assess modern trends and developments in sacred architecture. They will have a basic knowledge of the history and typology of sacred architecture of various religions with a focus on Vienna in the 20th and 21st centuries. They recognise what constitutes a sacred building and can analyse its functions. The aim of this course is to show how this category of building differs from secular buildings.
Inconspicuous religious buildings in Vienna
Sacred architecture in the modern age cannot necessarily be defined by specific forms or building materials. Even the complexity of the building forms, as Gothic churches or Hindu temples can show, is not a sure indication that a building can be labelled "sacred".
In this course, selected contemporary sacred buildings in Vienna will be presented, analysed and examined. The focus is not only on media-effective representative buildings, but also on everyday and rather inconspicuous projects. At the centre of the analysis are the architectural features, the use of symbolism, the functionality in a religious context and the reaction of the population to these buildings. This approach enables a critical examination of modern trends and developments in religious architecture. As part of the course, field research will be carried out in all 23 municipalities in Vienna. In particular, the rather inconspicuous sacred buildings will be documented.
- Research (literature, archives, internet, on-site visits, interviews)
- Documentation (descriptions, photos, films, graphics)
- Writing short reports
Collaborative working takes place on Tuesdays from 10.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. in the seminar room on the 1st floor of Gußhausstraße 28.
23.04. Excursion, visit to 1-2 inconspicuous sacred buildings in Vienna Compulsory attendance!
Meeting point at Praterstraße 28 (punctually at 10:00 am)
We will visit the Church of St John Paul II and then travel together to the New Apostolic Church in Penzing.
