Maltese Church

The Malteserkirche is a small Gothic church of the Sovereign Order of Malta on the Kaerntner Strasse in Vienna's 1st district, dedicated to John the Baptist. Its origins go back to the early 13th century when the Knights Hospitaller settled within the city; the present fabric is largely 14th-century. The exterior carries several armorial tablets of the Order, while inside, memorial plaques recall the 1565 defense of Malta and fallen knights. Despite its prime position on Vienna's busiest shopping street, the church is often empty and offers surprising quiet amid the bustle. Admission is free and the church stays open during the day for silent prayer.