Villa Rauhenstein

Villa Rauhenstein is located on Helenenstrasse, right at the base of the Rauhenstein ruins, which date back to the 12th century. The villa offers a stunning view of the surrounding hills and forests, as well as a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region.

The History of the Villa

The Villa Rauhenstein was constructed in 1894 by master builder Josef Schmidt, who was commissioned by Mrs. Anna Löwy, a wealthy widow and philanthropist. The villa was designed in the historicist style, with elements of neo-Renaissance and neo-Baroque. The villa had floor-to-ceiling windows, a spacious garden, and a fountain. It was one of the most elegant and luxurious residences in Baden at the time.

The villa was eventually acquired by the composer Hugo Wiener (1904-1993), who was best known for his cabaret songs and operettas. Wiener lived in the villa with his wife, Cissy Kraner, a famous singer and actress. The couple hosted many celebrities and artists in their home, such as Marlene Dietrich, Billy Wilder, and Peter Alexander. The villa became a hub of musical and cultural activity in Baden.

After Wiener’s death in 1993, Kraner sold the villa to a private investor, who transformed it into apartments. The villa was renovated and modernized, but it still retained its original charm and character. The villa is now a protected monument, and it is open to the public for guided tours and events.

The Attractions of the Villa

The Villa Rauhenstein is not only a place to live, but also a place to explore and enjoy. The villa offers many attractions for visitors, such as:

The Rauhenstein ruins: The ruins of the medieval castle are located on a hill above the villa. The castle was built by the Lords of Rauhenstein, who ruled over the area in the Middle Ages. The castle was destroyed by the Turks in 1683, and it was never rebuilt. The ruins are now a popular destination for hikers and history lovers, who can admire the panoramic view of Baden and the Vienna Woods.
The Hugo Wiener Museum: The museum is located in the former studio of Wiener, where he composed many of his famous songs. The museum displays memorabilia, photos, and documents related to Wiener’s life and work, as well as his piano and musical instruments. The museum also hosts concerts and lectures on Wiener’s music and legacy.
The Cissy Kraner Salon: The salon is located in the former living room of Kraner, where she entertained her guests and performed her songs. The salon is decorated with portraits, paintings, and furniture that belonged to Kraner. The salon also hosts cabaret shows and readings that pay tribute to Kraner’s humor and talent.
The Villa Garden: The garden is a peaceful oasis in the heart of Baden, where visitors can relax and enjoy the nature. The garden features a fountain, a pond, a gazebo, and a variety of flowers and plants. The garden is also a venue for outdoor events, such as weddings, parties, and picnics.

The Experience of the Villa

The Villa Rauhenstein is more than just a historic building, it is a living museum that celebrates the past and the present of Baden. The villa offers a unique experience for visitors, who can immerse themselves in the history, culture, and art of the region. The villa also offers a comfortable and cozy accommodation for guests, who can choose from different types of apartments, ranging from studios to penthouses. The apartments are equipped with modern amenities, such as Wi-Fi, cable TV, and air conditioning. The apartments also have access to the villa’s facilities, such as the garden, the museum, and the salon.

The Villa Rauhenstein is a perfect place for anyone who wants to enjoy the beauty and charm of Baden, while staying in a historic and elegant setting. The villa is conveniently located near the city center, the thermal spa, and the casino, as well as the train station, which connects Baden to Vienna and other destinations. The villa is also close to many attractions, such as the Beethoven House, the Rosarium, and the Kurpark.

Baden bei Wien, Austria