Viennese culture and traditions

Imagine a well-to-do family in the early 19th century taking tea in their living room on nicely-upholstered, elegant chairs while listening to their daughter perform a … [Read more...] about The Biedermeier Era in Vienna

A pivotal moment in Vienna's long past came in 1683 when the Ottoman Empire laid siege to the city. The outcome changed the course of Austrian and European history and gave … [Read more...] about The 1683 siege of Vienna

When is an ancient-looking building not so old? When historicism influenced the architect, as was the case for some of Vienna's more famous sites. What is … [Read more...] about Historicism in Vienna

Various institutions left their mark on the history of art and design. The Wiener Werkstätte community of artisans, artists, and designers, for example, played an important … [Read more...] about The Wiener Werkstätte

The expression Wiener Moderne seems to appear all over the place in Vienna, particularly in museums. But what does it refer to? Viennese Modernism (The Leopold … [Read more...] about The Wiener Moderne

One royal name pops up more than most as you wander around Vienna: Emperor Franz Joseph. So here's your quick primer on why this is… Who was Franz Joseph? (Emperor … [Read more...] about Franz Joseph: what you need to know