Vienna and Its Epic History

This beautifully decorated city is not only the capital of Austria, and the seat of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, but also one of the most populated cities in Europe   . . . 

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From Roman Expansion to the Habsburg Empire

Along this journey I will take you on an exploration of Vienna's time line with
​ancient archaeology, historic sites, and exquisite architecture ...
Yes, there will also be food and drink!

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Ancient History of Vienna

To best grasp the richness of Vienna's history we need to go back in time a bit. A great way to accomplish this is to pay a visit to the Wien Museum Römermuseum. In here you will find an impressive collection of artifacts dating back to the days of the Roman Empire, while venturing down below will treat the visitor to a view of what was at one time the foundation of those early structures. 

But original settlement here didn't start with the Romans. This base of activities was once called Vindobona, which originates from the Celtic language of those who they conquered to obtain this land. 

Entrance fee to this attraction is a fair charge of 8 euros, but If you would like to see something similar completely free you can visit an exposed archaeological site that is also located in the old part of town just a few blocks away.

Ruins of Old Vienna

With the collapse of the Roman Empire, the area would soon become ruled by various Germanic tribes. By 976 this frontier was gifted to the Badenberg family. It was during this time that Vienna would continue to grow into an important European city of trade. ​

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Architecture and Imperialism

In the 16th century Vienna would be added to the Kingdom of Bohemia, and later find itself under Habsburg rule. In the center of town you will find the Hofburg, which is an elaborate palace consisting of multiple wings. Groundbreaking on this site began in the late 13th century, and has since been the seat of governing elites. 

The Hofburg

Just northeast of here you will find the Imperial Crypt. Founded in 1633, this is the underground hall of elaborate tombs where generations of the Habsburg Royalty have found their final resting place. 

Habsburg Imperial Crypt

Now, let us take a look at some more of that amazing architecture from the past. Construction on St Stephen's Cathedral began in 1137 and was completed in 1578. What began with a Romanesque foundation eventually grew into the Gothic masterpiece you now see. It is currently the tallest church in all of Austria. 

St Stephen's Cathedral

​The 18th century would usher in an era of baroque architecture and an apex of classical music. Below is a view of the exterior and interior of St Peter's Church. This awe-inspiring religious structure was consecrated in 1733. It is easily recognized by its domed top resting between turrets. 

St Peter's Church

Remember I mentioned music? It is here in Vienna's Old Town that you may also stumble across an apartment known as Mozarthaus. The classical composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart resided here from 1784 to 1787. It was during this time that he wrote his famous work "Le Nozze di Figaro". 

Mozarthaus Vienna

Other monuments you could see in the area include the Column of Pest, which was inaugurated in 1694 to commemorate the end of the Black Plague that once ravaged Europe. Though it was based on original designs of Mathias Rauchmiller, he would die before its completion. Other local sculptors  then contributed to the final concept of this monument. 

Pest Column, Brahms, Gutenberg

There are also many other memorials to important societal contributors along the way, such as pianist Johannes Brahms and printing press pioneer Johannes Gutenberg. ​

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Other Sights around Town

Making your way around the Old Town's ring, you will encounter interesting sights like the elaborate Vienna City Hall boasting its Gothic Revival style of architecture. Nearby we have the Austrian Parliament that features a statue of Athena. 

The Museum Quarter is home to an abundance of historical exhibits, and the space in the center is known as the Maria-Theresien-Platz. Just east of here is the Vienna State Opera that opened in 1869 displaying a Neo-Renaissance style, but underwent extensive repairs after the WWII bombardments of 1945. 

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Outside the Old Town

Located a bit south of the Old Town ring is Schloss Belvedere. This lavish palace was constructed in 1723 for Prince Eugene of Savoy. This fabulous estate was later purchased by Empress Maria Theresa, and would eventually become the residence of Franz Ferdinand as well.  Roaming these grounds is free of charge, but a look inside will require a ticket. 

Schloss Belvedere

While the Upper Garden features a large pond with an elegant cityscape background, the Lower Garden contains a magnificent fountain and many impressive statues that line the ever-flowing immaculate landscaping. 

Lower Belvedere Garden

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​A Look at the Food

All that adventuring is bound to leave a person hungry. Fortunately, Vienna has no shortage of tasty cuisine to satisfy your culinary desires. Here you will find every thing from traditional dishes like schnitzel and strudel to delicious gourmet hamburgers. 

Foods of Vienna

Of course the beer is amazing too, and whatever you do ... do not pass up the chance to try one of those epic Mozart coffees!

With so much history and a seemingly endless amount of beauty in every direction, this article is only scratching the surface of the capital of Austria. Vienna is a place that can be explored over multiple trips with something new to experience each time. 

You can also follow along in my video!

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