Which cathedral in Vienna has a distinctive multicolored tile roof and a tall south tower called the Steffl?

The story behind the answer

St. Stephen’s Cathedral is the Vienna cathedral known for its multicolored tiled roof and its tall south tower, called the Steffl.

The cathedral stands at the center of Vienna and is one of Austria’s best-known Gothic buildings. Construction of the present structure began in the 14th century, although the site had earlier churches. Its south tower rises to about 136 metres and is a prominent feature of the city skyline.

The roof is covered with brightly colored glazed tiles arranged in geometric patterns, including the double-headed eagle associated with the Habsburg monarchy. These tiles were restored after the roof was badly damaged by fire at the end of the Second World War.

Vienna’s cathedral is often called Stephansdom in German. The nickname Steffl usually refers specifically to the south tower, not to the entire church. The unfinished north tower is much shorter and contains the Pummerin bell.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Sept. 2026

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