Eerily beautiful - the central cemetery in Vienna
- Written by Portal Editor
Every city, like every country, has its own bizarre peculiarities, so we were more than surprised about the central cemetery in Vienna during a conversation when we found out that the cemetery is also used as a park and green area by the Viennese.
Yes, it does go so far that joggers use the huge park for their runs almost every day and bookworms devour the latest bestseller in a relaxed and calm atmosphere, provided the weather is good.
Traffic in and at the central cemetery in Vienna
Until the mid-1980s, the cemetery area was even an official hunting area and the animal population was controlled by hunters appointed by the forest administration. Nowadays attempts are made to maintain the ecological balance even without the use of rifles by the environmental protection department of the City of Vienna, which with its nature and habitat protection program Network Nature ensures that, apart from the well-kept avenues and rows of graves, overgrown, near-natural areas are also preserved.
Traffic in and at the central cemetery
We have an appointment with our friend Bertl, who has not been there when we arrive. We use the time to get a first overview, so we also notice the souvenir shop right at the entrance portal. We enter and a young woman asks us about our plan. The slightly bizarre approach to the way of thinking about life and death quickly becomes apparent again. After information about the museum that deals with the tomb and burial culture of history and the belonging to the different religions and believes, there is also a reference to a beautiful café right next to it with a curious slogan: "Enjoy your coffee and stay forever!"
We decide to skip the café for today, despite the tempting offer of various, deliciously scented drinks and fresh pastries and cakes.
Our view then goes to the souvenir shop (which cemetery worldwide has a souvenir shop) and remains attached to the T-shirts on display: Zentralfriedhof - you are correct laying here for ever! it says. A completely new perspective opens up in front of our eyes.
And even though the cemetery is located between this busy street and the route of the airport express train, the vastness of the area completely spares traffic noise from the area.
However, a flight route of the airport located southeast of Vienna at a low altitude directly above the central cemetery leads to impairments to the cemetery rest.
The central cemetery has considerable distances due to its size. It´s main routes can also be traveled by car for a fee because of that. On November 1st (All Saints' Day) entry is not permitted, as the risk of traffic chaos would be too high on this day. Persons with a corresponding disability card are generally exempt from fees and may also drive into All Saints' Day.
The cemetery has had its own cemetery bus since 1971 to make it easier for people without a car to reach remote graves. During the day, except on All Saints' Day, it crosses the majority of the cemetery grounds every half hour from Gate 2 as a circular route and serves 19 numbered stops. Around 60,000 passengers use this transport service every year. The various stops in the park area say all about the seize already.
Historical grove and graves of honor - Falco is one of them
Since 1954, in addition to the honorary graves in the honorary grave groups, there are also the honorary graves category, which are either in group 40 (Ehrenhain) or occasionally in other groups on the cemetery grounds. There are currently more than 350 honorary graves and more than 600 honorary graves in the central cemetery.
However, one of the most frequently visited tombs by tourists, that of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, is only a memorial, since the remains of Mozart are in the St. Marx cemetery (where the exact location of Mozart's tomb cannot be determined, however, due to the Josephinian I reforms buried in a shaft grave).
The central cemetery was immortalized musically by the Austro pop musician Wolfgang Ambros, whose friend and lyricist Joesi Prokopetz was inspired by a poster on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the central cemetery to one of his greatest successes, the song “Long live the central cemetery " in 1974.
Scary and beautiful – the Central Cemetery of Vienna
The Vienna Central Cemetery is more than just a final resting place – it is a place full of history, art and mysticism. With its monumental graves, impressive Art Nouveau buildings and unique atmosphere, it attracts thousands of visitors every year. As one of the largest cemeteries in Europe, the Central Cemetery not only tells of transience, but also of the magnificent culture of Vienna.
In this blog we delve deep into the history, the famous personalities, the impressive architecture and the mysterious legends of this unique place.
The history of the Vienna Central Cemetery
Why was the Central Cemetery founded?
The choice fell on a site in Simmering, and so the Vienna Central Cemetery was officially opened on November 1, 1874.
Although it was initially met with scepticism - many Viennese people felt that the cemetery was too far away and impersonal - over the decades it became one of the most important burial sites in Europe.
Today it covers an area of 2.5 km² and is home to around 330,000 graves with over three million deceased.
The impressive architecture of the Central Cemetery
The Cemetery Church of Saint Charles Borromeo
With its striking green dome, magnificent stained-glass windows and artistic decorations, it is a central attraction for visitors. The church serves not only as a place of remembrance, but also as an architectural landmark in Vienna.
The monumental graves of honour
The Vienna Central Cemetery is known for its impressive graves of honour. Numerous famous people have been buried in specially designed areas. These graves are often decorated with elaborate monuments, statues and unique inscriptions.
Famous people at the Central Cemetery
The great composers of Vienna
Vienna is considered one of the most important music metropolises in the world, and many of the most famous composers have found their final resting place here:
- Ludwig van Beethoven – One of the most influential composers of all time, known for his symphonies and piano works.
- Johannes Brahms – Famous composer of the Romantic era with masterpieces such as the German Requiem.
- Franz Schubert – Genius of Viennese Classicism and Early Romanticism, known for his song cycles and symphonies.
- Johann Strauss Father & Son – The masters of Viennese waltzes and operetta music.
Politicians and public figures
- Dr. Karl Lueger – The former mayor of Vienna, after whom the magnificent cemetery church was named.
- Bruno Kreisky – One of Austria's most famous chancellors.
Actors, writers and artists
- Falco (Johann Hölzel) – The legendary Austrian pop star, known for hits such as Rock Me Amadeus.
- Helmut Qualtinger – Cabaret artist and actor, famous for his satirical works.
- Fritz Muliar – One of the most popular Austrian actors of the 20th century.
The honorary graves are particularly impressive to visitors as they reflect Vienna's cultural diversity and keep the city's history alive.
Mysterious Stories and Myths of the Central Cemetery
The Ghost of Beethoven and Schubert
One of the most famous stories says that the ghosts of Beethoven and Schubert were often sighted during the night hours. Both composers were originally buried at the Währing Local Cemetery before their remains were transferred to the Central Cemetery. Visitors report strange sounds and eerie apparitions near their graves.
The "Gate to the Underworld"
There is an old legend that says that a certain grave in the Central Cemetery serves as a gate to the underworld. Strange shadows are said to appear here on full moon nights, and some visitors report an inexplicable feeling of cold in certain areas of the cemetery.
The Secret Passages Under the Cemetery
Rumours say that a network of secret catacombs and tunnels exists beneath the Central Cemetery, which were once used for various purposes. Historians have not found any concrete evidence for this, but these myths contribute to the mysterious aura of the cemetery.
The Central Cemetery as Vienna's green oasis
Flora and fauna in the cemetery
The Central Cemetery is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Visitors can observe deer, hares, foxes and rare bird species, among others. The cemetery reveals its full beauty especially in autumn, when the leaves bathe the paths in golden colours.
The Forest Cemetery - A special resting place
A special area of the Central Cemetery is the Forest Cemetery, where urn burials are possible in a natural environment. This area is particularly popular with people who prefer an environmentally friendly and nature-oriented burial.
Visiting tips for the Central Cemetery
Address: Simmeringer Hauptstraße 234, 1110 Vienna
Opening times: Open daily, exact times depending on the season
Admission: Free
Accessibility: By tram line 71 or subway line U3 (Simmering station)
Best times to visit
- Spring and autumn: The picturesque colours make the cemetery particularly worth seeing.
- All Saints Day (November 1st): On this holiday, many Viennese people go out to honour their deceased relatives - a unique experience.
- Foggy mornings: If you want to experience the spooky-beautiful ambience in full intensity, you should visit the cemetery early in the morning when it is foggy.
Conclusion: The Central Cemetery - A place between life and death
Whether you are a music lover, history buff or just looking for an unusual destination - the Central Cemetery will captivate you with its spooky-beautiful atmosphere.
Have you ever visited the Central Cemetery? Share your impressions in the comments!
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Central Cemetry Vienna - Park For Leisure too Central Cemetry Vienna - Park For Leisure too -
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