Pfarrkirche Zeutschach

The parish church of Zeutschach stands at the edge of the village in the Murau district of Styria. Built in the 12th century and dedicated to St Ägidius, it has watched over the settlement for more than eight centuries. A stone church with a steep shingle roof and five large round-headed windows, it rises above a walled cemetery that surrounds the building on all sides. The church contains several notable works of art. A 17th-century statue of St Ägidius sits on the high altar, while a baroque side altar by Balthasar Prandtstätter shows the Crucifixion. A carved apostle chandelier from 1851 depicts the twelve apostles, and the Stations of the Cross are enamel plaques by Bernward Schmid. Above the west door a 14th-century Gothic fresco has been uncovered, and nearby a classical-style baptismal font shows the baptism of Christ. Inside, the chancel and nave share the same stone floor, making the space feel open and welcoming. A single step separates the high altar from the congregation, and the plain stone altar stands ready for use. The west portal is topped by a sgraffito by the artist Peter Krenn, adding a touch of colour to the stone façade. From the outside, the wooden bell tower with its pointed roof rises above the church, though its interior is not open to visitors.