Transromanica-Guide:
Cathedral - Gurk
Cathedral - Gurk
The origins of Gurk Cathedral go back to the foundation of the diocese of Gurk by Archbishop Gebhard of Salzburg in 1072. During Bishop Roman I of Gurk’s term of office (1131-1167), the construction of the cathedral began to the east of the previous building.It is not possible to determine its age exactly due to the lack of sources. The crypt was completed in 1174 and, at the same time, the body of St. Hemma was transferred to it. The crypt with its 100 columns is a highlight of Romanesque architecture. A special gem is the Bishop’s Chapel, in the western gallery of the cathedral, with its original, jagged style (Zackenstil) frescoes (1260). Further highlights are the Gothic vaults, frescoes from the Renaissance as well as a baroque high altar created by Michael Hönel (1632). The cathedral also has Austria’s oldest and largest Lenten cloth from the late Middle Ages (1458). Dating from more recent times (1987) are the entrance gate and the people’s altar made by the artist, Thomas Hoke.
History
The history of Gurk Cathedral is closely linked to St. Hemma. The historical Hemma (970-1054) descended from the dynasty of the Counts of Friesach-Zeltschach. She was married to Count Willhelm von der Sann and was related to Emperor Heinrich II. Her husband as well as her two sons died young.
Architecture
Gurk‘s Mariendom (Lady Cathedral) is undoubtedly among Austria‘s most important Romanesque buildings. To the west of the previous building, the construction work of the religious building began under Bishop Roman I (1131-1167). In 1200, Bishop Ekkehard consecrated the high altar and, by 1220, the cathedral was completed.
Design
Visitors enter the vestibule of Gurk Cathedral by a sevenfold stepped Romanesque western portal. Slender columns that stand close together and bell-shaped capitals with bud and foliage decoration, characterise the portal. The original coronets made of limewood (around 1200) show figural representations in leaf medallions.Cathedral`s Information Office
9342 Gurk
Phone: ++43(0)4266-8236-0
Fax: ++43(0)4266-8236-16
