Bettelorden

Mendicant Orders, developed in the late 13^th century, Franciscans, later also Friars Minor, Capuchin), Dominicans, Carmelites and Augustinian Hermits. They were particularly active in the emerging cities with their social problems. The mendicant orders in Austria soon became popular with the nobility and the burghers, but lived in continuous rivalry with the secular clergy and the jurisdiction of the bishops. In Austria, they greatly influenced art by promoting an early Gothic style which had originated in Italy. Their church architecture is often governed by the architectural principles of the Cistercian style, but is less elaborate and relies on simple forms (no towers, less decorative statuary and simpler architectonic organisation).

Literature: R. Donin, Die Bettelorden-Kirchen in Österreich, 1935.