Last Updated on February 28, 2023 by gregor
“The Final Resting Place of Legends: Uncovering the Treasures of Vienna Central Cemetery”
Vienna is a city steeped in history, with so many cultural and historical sites to see. One of the most interesting and lesser-known places to visit is the Vienna Central Cemetery, or Zentralfriedhof as it is known locally. This sprawling cemetery is the final resting place for many famous Viennese figures and is a fascinating place to explore.
In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the Vienna Central Cemetery and what makes it such a unique and important part of Vienna.
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History of the Vienna Central Cemetery
The Vienna Central Cemetery was established in 1874 and covers over 2.5 square kilometers of land, making it one of the largest cemeteries in Europe. The cemetery was designed by famous Viennese architect, Karl von Hasenauer, and includes a variety of different burial sections, including Jewish, Catholic, Protestant, and Muslim sections. Since its opening, the cemetery has been the final resting place for over three million people.
How do I get to the Vienna Central Cemetery (Zentralfriedhof Vienna)
By Train: The S7 city train service stops at the Zentralfriedhof station. Train Station Wien Mitte – Take the “S7 Train” which Takes 9 minutes
By Tram: take line 71 or 11 to Zentralfriedhof 2.Tor. The 71 leaves from several central stops, such as Schottentor, Ring/Volkstheater, Oper/Karlsplatz, or Schwarzenbergplatz.
Address: Zentralfriedhof, Simmeringer Hauptstraße 234, 1110 Vienna
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Famous Figures Buried at the Vienna Central Cemetery
One of the most interesting aspects of the Vienna Central Cemetery is the number of famous and influential people buried there. Some of the most notable figures include:
- Ludwig van Beethoven: The famous composer is buried in an ornate grave in the cemetery’s composer’s section. Beethoven’s grave is a popular destination for tourists and classical music enthusiasts.
- Franz Schubert: Another famous composer, Schubert’s grave is located in the same section as Beethoven’s. Visitors can see the simple gravestone that marks Schubert’s resting place.
- Johann Strauss II: Known as the “Waltz King,” Strauss is buried in the musician’s section of the cemetery. His grave is decorated with a statue of a lyre and music notes.
- Falco: The Austrian musician behind the hit song “Rock Me Amadeus” is buried in a more modern grave in the cemetery’s musician’s section. His grave is decorated with a large sculpture of an eagle.
- Carl von Rokitansky: A famous physician and pathologist, Rokitansky’s grave is located in the cemetery’s doctor’s section. His grave is marked with an impressive statue of a robed figure.
- Bruno Kreisky: Austria’s longest-serving chancellor is buried in the politician’s section of the cemetery. Visitors can see the simple, understated grave that marks his final resting place.
Exploring the Vienna Central Cemetery
Visiting the Vienna Central Cemetery can be a bit overwhelming, given its size and the number of burial sections. However, with a bit of planning, it’s possible to see some of the most interesting parts of the cemetery in a few hours. Some of the must-see areas include:
The composer’s section
This section of the cemetery is where many of Vienna’s most famous composers are buried. Be sure to stop by Beethoven’s and Schubert’s graves, as well as those of Brahms, Strauss, and many others.
The musician’s section
In addition to the composer’s section, the Vienna Central Cemetery also has a section dedicated to musicians. This is where you can find the graves of Falco, Hans Moser, and other famous Austrian musicians.
The honorary graves
The cemetery also has a section dedicated to “honorary graves,” where famous figures who were not buried in the cemetery are commemorated. This section includes graves for Mozart, Beethoven, and other notable figures.
The old Jewish section
The Vienna Central Cemetery has a separate section for Jewish burials, and the old Jewish section is particularly interesting. Here, you can see ornate grave markers and learn about the history of the Jewish community in Vienna.
The monumental tombs
Finally, be sure to explore the cemetery’s many monumental tombs. These impressive structures are often built to honor important families or individuals and can be quite elaborate. Some of the most impressive tombs include the Art Nouveau tomb of the Salten family, the grandiose tomb of the Rothschild family, and the tomb of the famed Austrian architect, Otto Wagner.
While the Vienna Central Cemetery may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of things to do in Vienna, it is a unique and interesting destination that is well worth a visit. Not only is it the final resting place for many famous and influential figures, but it also provides a glimpse into Vienna’s rich history and culture.
Practical Information visiting the Central Cemetery in Vienna
The Vienna Central Cemetery is open every day from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. Admission is free, and you can easily reach the cemetery via public transportation.
When visiting the cemetery, it’s important to be respectful of the graves and the people who are buried there. Avoid loud noises and take care not to disturb any flowers or other offerings that have been left on the graves. Additionally, it’s a good idea to bring a map or guidebook with you, as the cemetery can be quite confusing to navigate.
Guided Tours of the Vienna Central Cemetery
If you have the time, consider taking a guided tour of the Vienna Central Cemetery. There are several tour operators who offer guided tours of the cemetery, which can provide a more in-depth look at the cemetery’s history and notable figures. Additionally, some of the tours may take you to parts of the cemetery that are off-limits to the public.
I highly recommend one of the Guided Tours visiting the Vienna Central Cemetery. (Check Availability and prices here)
Final Thoughts visiting the Zentralfriedhof in Wien (Vienna)
The Vienna Central Cemetery is a unique and fascinating destination that provides a glimpse into Vienna’s rich history and culture. Whether you’re a classical music enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for an interesting and off-the-beaten-path destination, the cemetery is well worth a visit. With its impressive tombs, famous graves, and beautiful grounds, the Vienna Central Cemetery is truly a one-of-a-kind destination that should not be missed.
All Saints’ Day Celebration (November 1st)
Another interesting feature of the Vienna Central Cemetery is its annual All Saints’ Day celebration. Each year on November 1st, the cemetery comes alive with candles, flowers, and other offerings left on the graves of loved ones. This tradition is a meaningful way for Viennese people to honor their deceased family members and friends.
If you have a chance to visit the Vienna Central Cemetery, be sure to also explore the surrounding area. The cemetery is located in the Simmering district of Vienna, which has a variety of other interesting sites to see, including the Gasometer towers, which were once used to store gas for the city.
Finally, the Vienna Central Cemetery is an important reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of remembering those who have gone before us. By visiting the cemetery and taking the time to appreciate the people who are buried there, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the richness and complexity of human history.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Vienna Central Cemetery is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Viennese history and culture. With its famous graves, impressive tombs, and beautiful grounds, the cemetery provides a unique and fascinating look at the city’s past. Whether you visit on your own or as part of a guided tour, be sure to take the time to explore this important and meaningful part of Vienna.
I highly recommend one of the Guided Tours visiting the Vienna Central Cemetery. (Check Availability and prices here)
