Parish Church Braunau-Ranshofen

The St. Pankraz parish church in Braunau-Ranshofen is a Roman Catholic place of worship situated in the town of Ranshofen, which is part of the municipality of Braunau am Inn. It is located in the Upper Austria region.Since January 1, 2023, Braunau-Ranshofen has been officially included as one of the 14 parishes within the Diocese of Linz, specifically serving the parish of Braunau.

The church and estate of Ranshofen were first documented during the 10th century. Around 1040, a clergyman named Hanto was hired to work there.The parish church was consecrated in 1135, but unfortunately, it was later destroyed. The church was reconsecrated in 1283.The construction of the collegiate church began in 1508, and by 1515, the altars had already been consecrated.After the tower collapsed in 1621, the central nave was modified to include a semi-circular western end.The construction of the new tower took place between 1622 and 1630.Between 1697 and 1699, the church’s interior underwent a Baroque renovation. As part of this renovation, the southern aisle was enclosed in the basement.A restoration of the interior took place from 1946 to 1948.

The church showcases a stunning blend of baroque and Gothic architectural styles. It is distinguished by its unique staggered design, with a tower situated on the western side.The nave was originally designed with three aisles and four bays. In 1697, the southern aisle was enclosed in the basement and it currently functions as an oratory on the upper floor.The central nave and northern aisle showcase lunette-barrel vaults that were built in the Gothic style.The choir is situated in the central nave and is elevated by two steps. It consists of four bays and includes a three-eighth note.

The high altar, which was constructed in 1698, is highly ornate and adorned with exceptional statues. It spans the entire end of the choir.The altarpiece was painted by Johann Kaspar Sing, who was the painter.The six side altars, which date back to 1699, do not have any physical structure and instead showcase artwork by Johann Philipp Ruckerbauer from Sarleinsbach. The artwork is showcased in beautifully intricate acanthus frames.