Theresa Military Academy

The Theresian Military institution is an Austrian military institution where officers of the Austrian Armed Forces are trained. The academy was founded in 1751 and is housed in the castle of Wiener Neustadt in Lower Austria.

The castle was built roughly 50 years after the city was founded in 1192 as a military base for Frederick II the Quarrelsome, the last Babenberg. It was repeatedly extended and given new purposes over the years. Emperor Frederick III had the fortress completely reconstructed, giving it its current aspect. Wiener Neustadt was a major imperial home for Emperor Frederick III and his son Maximilian I. Emperor Maximilian I was born, christened, and spent his childhood in the palace at Wiener Neustadt. The Holy Roman Empire grew from here. It grew to such proportions that “the sun never set.” Maximilian I was buried in St. George’s Cathedral after his death. His mortal remains, according to his will, are buried beneath the high altar.

Empress Maria Theresa converted the castle into the world’s oldest military academy in 1751. “Make me capable officers and righteous men out of it,” her first commander was told. Originally planned as a training facility for 100 noblemen and 100 commoners, the military academy evolved into the Habsburg Empire’s cadre school. Every year, a fresh group of well-trained men and women is assembled. Those curious about the meaning of the initials AEIOU, coined by Emperor Frederick III, may uncover a probable explanation during a guided walk in front of the famous coat of arms wall. And realize, with a smile, that its interpretation still piques the imagination to this day.