Malteserkirche (Maltese Church), Vienna

The Maltese Church, also known as the Malteserkirche, is a Gothic church located on Kärntner Straße in Vienna. It has historical ties to the Knights Hospitaller. The earliest reference to a church at this location dates back to 1217 when it was referred to as a "House of the Prueder of the Order of Saint John." This establishment served as a commandry to provide care and support for crusaders.

The existing church building was constructed during the mid-15th century. In the 17th century, it gained popularity as a favored preaching location for Abraham a Sancta Clara.

During the Baroque era, the church underwent renovations to align with contemporary architectural preferences. Further alterations took place in 1806. In the 19th century, stained glass windows were added to the Kommendenhaus in 1839 and various parts of the church in 1857.

Following financial difficulties faced by the Order after the First World War, the church had to be sold in 1933, along with the Johanneshof. Subsequently, the church was repurposed while maintaining its historical significance through preservation orders. In 1960, it was reacquired and underwent a phased restoration process, culminating in a comprehensive restoration in 1998.

One notable feature of the church is its high altarpiece, which was painted by Johann Georg Schmidt in 1730.