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| Vienna…. One of the great capitals of Europe.. |
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ienna is the capital of Austria and lies in the heart of central Europe. For centuries it was the seat of the Habsburg Empire, and Vienna (Wien) today is a city full of tradition and rich in architectural, artistic and musical heritage. In Vienna you can admire the imperial architecture, and visit the places that influenced some of the most famous classical musicians: Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, Strauss, Brahms, etc.
The influx of visitors from all over the world has made Vienna the most popular urban tourist destination in Austria. Vienna has plenty to offer for everyone. This grandiose city once controlled most of Europe, but is now better known for its enviable collections of historic and artistic treasures.
The world capital of music was home to numerous opera, operetta and musical composers. Music lovers the world over are attracted to Vienna. This outstanding musical heritage has been preserved right to the present day.
The collecting passion of art-loving rulers and monarchs has made Vienna a treasure house par excellence. The Museum of Fine Arts, for instance, is one of the world's largest and most distinguished museums, housing priceless works of art.
Vienna is divided into 23 districts. The original city that lay within the protective walls comprises the First District of modern Vienna. The demolition of the city walls led to the construction of the Ringstrasse and an impressive parade of buildings along its length. The majority of the tourist destinations lie on and within the Ringstrasse. One of the best ways to move around the city is by tramway.
Most people visit Vienna with a vivid image of the city in their minds: a monumental vision of Habsburg palaces, trotting white horses, old ladies in fur coats and mountains of fat cream cakes. They're unlikely to be disappointed, for the city positively feeds off imperial nostalgia
Stadtpark (city park), in front of Johan Strauss' Denkmal, one of the symbols of Vienna. This memorial is a work of Edmund Hellmer, but it's not the only monument in this park. There are more monuments dedicated to other Austrians.
Another city's landmark is the State Opera House. This Opera House is one of the most famous Opera Theaters in the world. Some of the best directors of all times have performed here. The list is almost endless, but to name just a few: Mahler, Strauss, Krauss and von Karajan.
Belvedere Palace is one of the most important Baroque works in the world. Inside the Palace there's the Austrian Gallery, with 19th and 20th centuries Austrian and International works, among others there are works of Amerling, Hausner, Hundertwasser, Klimt, Kokoscha, Romako, Schiele, Waldmüller, and some French impressionists too.
One of the best samples of the Baroque architecture of Vienna is the Saint Charles Borromeo Church, with its 236 feet high dome. This church was constructed from 1716 to 1739. The works were begun by JB Fischer von Erlach, and were continued by his son Joseph Emanuel. In front of the church there is a sculpture by Henry Moore
Imperial Palace was the residence of the Habsburg emperors, whose empire lasted until 1918. Currently the Palace houses the hall where the Spanish Riding School performs, the Chapel where the Vienna's Boys Choir sing, the offices of the Austrian President, a convention center and several museums. Outside the palace gates there are two large museums The Museum of Fine Arts and The Natural History Museum. The Fine Arts Museum has a vast collection of Fine Arts and Natural history museum has a collection of meteorites, fossils, insects and skeletons of pre-historic animals.
The Votive Church is one of the most beautiful churches in Vienna. The church was constructed between 1856 and 1879. St. Stephen's Cathedral has a Romanesque origin. Its construction began in the 12th century during the reign of Ottokar II of Bohemia. The church was completely reconstructed in Gothic Style following the orders of Duke Rudolph IV of Habsburg. Stefansdom Cathedral is dedicated to the first martyr of Christendom: Saint Stephen.
Schönbrunn Palace is one of Vienna's most beautiful buildings. This is where the Empress Maria Theresa lived with her husband and 16 children. The palace has its origins in 1559, the Building is wonderful, and so are the gardens.
A historic capital with a wealth of beautiful architecture and magnificent buildings, Vienna is an impressive and elegant city. Fabulous churches, museums, theatres and music halls can be found throughout the city, as can designer shops and restaurants. Sumptuous Austrian cuisine and local wines should not be missed, nor should the famous chocolate shops.
Worldroom City Guide: Vienna
Vienna Weather:
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