St. Michael's Church is the oldest parish church in Salzburg's burghers' town. It stands on ancient ground between the Residence and the Waagplatz. It served as a palace chapel and parish church up to the 12th century. In its double function the church was divided into two sectors: the upper sector was reserved to the emperor and his entourage and was accessed from the palace. The lower sector was accessed from the market square and open to the townsfolk.
Architectural history
The small rococo church on Residence Square already existed prior to 800. It has belonged to St. Peter's Monastery since the High Middle Ages, which was concerned with maintaining the church. It was quickly rebuilt after the fires in 823 and 1167 but lost its former spiritual significance when the parish rights were transferred to the Liebfrauenkirche (Church of St. Mary).
Architecture and interior
St. Michael's Church was remodeled and newly furnished from 1767 to 1776,adding a baroque onion dome. The church has meanwhile been integrated in the building facade on Residence Square so that very little of its outer appearance is still visible.
The principal altar is decorated with an impressive painting of the Archangel Michael conquering Lucifer. The side altars are decorated with paintings of the two archangels, Gabriel and Raphael. The screen by Philipp Hinterseer (1770) is one of the loveliest adornments in St. Michael's Church after its conversion to the baroque style.
Daily 8-11.45am, 1-6pm
No visits during mass!
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