Vienna boasts an illustrious past that dates back to the 1st century when it first established as Vindobona Military Camp.
Since then, Vienna has emerged as a center for political, cultural, and economic movements across Europe. Notable figures who have resided here include Gustav Klimt of Secession movement art fame; Sigmund Freud who pioneered psychoanalysis; as well as many talented musicians like Gustav Klimt.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral
St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom), Vienna’s iconic symbol and home of its Archbishop, is an attraction not to be missed. It boasts Germany’s tallest South Tower at 137 meters high – while over time this building has seen numerous additions and modifications that make its grandeur all the more impressive.
Parts of the original Romanesque 12th-century church still stand today, including its massive front gate, known as Riesentor (“Giant’s Door”). From 1400-1411, Duke Rudolf IV led an expansion effort which added the North Tower and Albertine Choir.
The church features an ornately-patterned roof made up of 230,000 colorful tiles arranged zigzag-style. Inside is a marble checkerboard floor and series of full-size statues to adorn its nave. There are eighteen altars within Stephansdom Cathedral; among these is the High Altar that dates back to 1647 and Empress Elisabeth of Austria (1654 – 1592), who was initially interred at her Discalced Carmelites convent founded by her before being moved over here in 1782.
Schonbrunn Palace
History is truly staggering when it comes to this incredible palace in Vienna. Over its long and distinguished existence, this Baroque imperial palace has housed some of Europe’s most notable historical figures and hosted an array of significant events that make up its remarkable story. Visitors should make time to see it for themselves! It truly should not be missed!
At Schonbrunn, you will discover many extraordinary rooms, each one telling a unique tale. From the stunning Great Gallery where royal banquets took place to the Chinese Cabinets and Franz Joseph signing his government’s surrender in 1918 and ending monarchy, Schonbrunn offers plenty of incredible moments and sights for everyone to witness.
Gardens at Schonbrunn Palace are magnificent, featuring stunning features like the Gloriette, which offers panoramic views of both the palace and Vienna cityscape. Additionally, there’s a maze, ruined fortress, greenhouse and one of the world’s oldest zoos to discover here.
Schwarzenberg-Denkmal
Explore history through this beautifully engraved image depicting Prince Schwarzenberg in all his grandeur, exuding power and nobility. An exquisite example of Victorian-era artistic talent!
For the 50th anniversary of Leipzig Battle and inaugurated in 1867, an equestrian statue featuring Prince Louis dressed as Field Marshal was constructed and dedicated. Additionally, Vienna Glacis had been partially filled in during mid 19th century development and developed into City Wall Square.
There are various Ring trams (2, D or 71) and an old town bus (2A) stopping within shouting distance of this monument, and nearby there’s also the Wiener Musikverein theater/concert hall for easy accessibility.
Hofburg
Over six centuries, this sprawling complex was the hub for Habsburg monarchs. You can still see how they lived and worked here – including Austrian President’s offices, preserved Kaiserappartements, and numerous museums.
The Schweizerhof dates to the 13th century; construction continued into the 20th. Each ruler ordered additions or changes which result in this complex building reflecting seven centuries of architecture ranging from Gothic to Rococo styles and everything in between.
Hofburg Imperial Palace is enormous, and there are so many rooms to explore that one could spend days just exploring a portion of it. Some highlights include medieval helmets and richly ornate swords from its armory collection; antique clavichords from Beethoven’s table piano collection; as well as its silver collection including Benin bronzes and an extensive assortment of silverware displays.
