Statue of Pope Innocent XI

The Statue of Pope Innocent XI stands in Hess Andras Ter, approximately 150 meters northwest of the iconic St. Mattias Church. The statue honors Pope Innocent XI’s significant contribution to the Holy League, a coalition of military forces that successfully defended Vienna against a Turkish siege in 1683 and subsequently drove the Ottomans out of Hungary by 1686. Created by Hungarian sculptors Damkó József and Wälder Gyula, the bronze statue depicts the Pope in full ecclesiastical attire, complete with a miter and orthodox staff. The pedestal features four relief sculptures detailing key moments and symbols related to his papacy and the liberation of Hungary, including his coat of arms, the presentation of the papal bull, a depiction of the Holy League, and a Hungarian soldier planting a flag on Buda Castle. The square itself is well-maintained and offers a tranquil setting.