Filial Church of St Andrew
The filial Church of St Andrew is located at Kollerhof in the settlement of St Andrä, within the municipality of Sankt Veit an der Glan.
History
The church was first documented in 1379. It underwent restoration in the 19th century following profanation. Another major restoration was completed in 1970.
Architectural Epoch and Style
The church exhibits Romanesque-Gothic characteristics. Notably, Roman spolia stones are embedded in the exterior walls, and there are Late Gothic statues in the interior.
Architectural Features
Exterior
– Romanesque-Gothic structure with Roman stone spolia on the outer walls.
– The west portal features an early 16th-century donor box (Opferstock) adorned with figurative ornamentation.
Interior
– A plain high altar dating from around 1660.
– Late Gothic statue of the Madonna and Child at the main altar.
– Three Baroque altars containing Late Gothic shrine figures.
Annual Processions
The most prominent liturgical event is the Easter food blessing (Fleischweihe) held outdoors before the church. In the past, two blessings were needed due to limited indoor capacity. The baskets are artfully covered with cross-stitch cloths. This folk custom dates back to the High Middle Ages, symbolising the link to nature’s rebirth and spiritual renewal.
Historical Photographs
Image Source: Archive of the Municipal Authority of St. Veit an der Glan
Church of St. Andrew at Kollerhof
Photographed in 1969
Renovation of the Church at Kollerhof
Photographed in 1969