Protestant Church Christuskirche
Luther's doctrines also spread throughout Salzburg at the beginning of the Reformation. The cornerstone for the Christ Lutheran Church was laid on the banks of the Salzach in 1863.
The construction of the church was financed by generous donations from the Protestant world. 370 prisoners held captive in the Fortress during the Austro-Prussian War against Denmark helped build the church. It was consecrated in September 1867. The brick building on Elisabethkai was the first Protestant church in the Province of Salzburg.
The church is the product of the historicizing architecture representational of the stimuli and synthesis of former styles developing into an independent style of its own. It is the only example of romantic historicism found in Salzburg today. With its balanced proportions, a blend of the Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance styles, and the colorful change from the muted red building to the light grey ornamentation, the church gives a picturesque overall impression. The architect was especially proud of the high steeple and mighty balustrade, visible from afar.
The interior of the Christ Lutheran Church is austere, consistent with its sole purpose of preaching the word of the Gospel. The portrayal of Christ as a teacher and ruler is supplemented by symbols of the four Evangelists. Two paintings on both sides of the chancel portray events from the history of Protestantism in Salzburg: the oath of allegiance taken by Protestant farmers in Schwarzach and the Lutheran Expulsion in 1732. The beautiful stained glass window in the chancel was made by Albert Birkle in 1950. It expressively portrays Christ as a Good Shepherd with the lamb and the two Apostles, Peter and John. The lower part shows the Protestant emigrants in their traditional Salzburg costumes.
Concerts and other events are held at the church regularly.
