Vienna City Overview

The capital of Austria is the beautiful city of Austria (Wein). With a population of close to 2 million, Vienna is easily the largest city in Austria. This is a city that is associated with the Hapsburgs, music, dance, and some of the most beautiful buildings found anywhere in Europe. Adding to the charm of the city is the Danube River, which flows through the city. This is a wonderful city to explore on foot. It seems that every street offers something of interest.

Much of the beauty of Vienna relates to the fact that this city was once the imperial seat of the Hapsburgs. At one time this royal family controlled substantial portions Europe. As one of the most powerful states in Europe, the Hapsburgs wanted Vienna to reflect their wealth and power. A quick stroll through Vienna will leave not doubt that they were successful in this endeavor!

The Hapsburgs were also major patrons of the arts, and music was one area of particular interest. Some of the great composers of the past lived and worked in Vienna. Some of the more notable composers include Mozart, Beethoven, Strauss, and Schuburt. Today this tradition continues, and it it said by some that the heart and soul of Vienna is music.

Throughout the city there are numerous venues and festivals whose focus is music. Stop by the Staatsopera (State Opera House) or go to a ball to get a sense of what music means to the people of Vienna. During the summer months there a variety of great outdoor festivals known for music, food and dance.

Vienna is home to at least 90 museums. Of these a substantial portion are devoted to art. The most famous art museum is the Kunsthistorisches. This museum houses the works of some of the greatest European masters. Art Nouveau was born in Vienna, and a variety of museums show off some of the more interesting and important works. The most prominent Art Nouveau painter from Vienna was Klimt.

Some other attractions of note in Vienna include the world famous Spanish Riding School and The Vienna Boy's Choir.

Any visitor to Vienna cannot help but note that the past has left profound mark on Vienna. A visit to Vienna should convince anyone that this city is on par with other cities such as Rome, Paris, London, and Barcelona.

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