Attractions & Landmarks In Wiener Neustadt
Wiener Neustadt, located about 50 km south of Vienna in Lower Austria, boasts a rich history and cultural heritage with various attractions and landmarks for exploration.
Burg Wiener Neustadt, a medieval castle constructed in the 12th century by the Babenberg dynasty, served as the residence for Austrian dukes and later Habsburg emperors until the 16th century. Hosting significant historical events, such as the Peace of Wiener Neustadt in 1469, the castle now functions as a museum showcasing exhibits related to the city’s history and art. Its impressive architecture and beautiful courtyard contribute to its allure.
Johannesbachklamm, a scenic gorge near Wurflach, approximately 15 km from Wiener Neustadt, offers a picturesque landscape shaped by the Johannesbach stream. Popular among hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts, the gorge features trails leading to waterfalls, pools, and hidden spots, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Dom Wiener Neustadt, a Gothic cathedral constructed in the 13th century by the Teutonic Order, stands as one of the oldest and largest churches in Lower Austria. Dedicated to St. Mary and St. Rupert, the cathedral boasts a magnificent interior adorned with stained glass windows, frescoes, altars, and sculptures. Noteworthy artworks include the All-seeing Eye on the ceiling of the nave, and the cathedral houses tombs of prominent figures like Emperor Frederick III and Maximilian I.
Stift Neukloster, a Baroque monastery founded in 1444 by the Cistercian Order, remains an active spiritual and cultural center. Housing monks adhering to the Benedictine rule, the monastery hosts various events, concerts, and exhibitions. The complex includes the church, cloister, library, and museum, with the church standing out for its ornate decoration and a high altar considered a masterpiece of Austrian Baroque art. The museum displays religious and historical artifacts, including the sarcophagus of Leonora of Portugal.
Myra Falls, situated near Muggendorf, around 25 km from Wiener Neustadt, form a series of waterfalls along the Myra river. Surrounded by a lush forest and a nature reserve, the falls provide a tranquil atmosphere. Accessible via a wooden walkway offering spectacular views, the falls are illuminated at night, creating a magical ambiance.
These landmarks represent just a glimpse of Wiener Neustadt’s attractions. The city, with its historical charm, offers a diverse range of places to explore, catering to interests in culture, nature, and adventure.
Main Square Of Wiener Neustadt
The main square of Wiener Neustadt, located within the city walls, serves as a focal point with central streets leading in from all directions. The square is approximately 180 m wide and 80 m deep, with historical significance as it used to be part of a major long-distance route connecting Vienna to Styria and Italy until 1954.
Key features include the division of the square by the Wiener Straße–Neunkirchner Straße street, the presence of the classical Marian Column in the eastern part, and a group of houses known as the “Gratzl” in the west. The Marienmarkt, situated between Gratzl and Mariensaule, consists of fixed pavilions housing shops and restaurants. Additionally, a bus stop for city buses is established on the eastern edge.
Most buildings surrounding the square date back to the end of the Middle Ages or the beginning of the Modern Era. Despite various alterations and reconstructions, these structures maintain the appearance of old buildings, featuring traditional facades and arcades. The ground floors house shops, pharmacies, and bank branches, accompanied by guest gardens in front of restaurants.
The entire main area functions as a traffic-free zone, allowing only pedestrians and cyclists in the western part, while the eastern part permits access to specific businesses and a hotel. City buses operate from Grübelgasse on the northeast side, departing from Ungargasse on the east side of the square. Large trees provide shade in designated areas, and the Schrauthammer fountain, constructed in 1615 with a Renaissance-style wrought-iron dome from 1936, is located in the northwest corner.
A weekly market takes place on Wednesdays and Saturdays in the main square, typically situated in the eastern part around the Marian Column, unless that space is designated for other activities. This market contributes to the vibrant atmosphere of the square, attracting residents and visitors alike.
Theresa Military Academy
The Theresian Military Institution, established in 1751, serves as a crucial training ground for officers of the Austrian Armed Forces and is situated in the historic castle of Wiener Neustadt in Lower Austria. The castle’s origins trace back approximately 50 years after the city’s founding in 1192, initially conceived as a military base for Frederick II the Quarrelsome, the last Babenberg. Throughout the years, the fortress underwent several extensions and repurposing, with Emperor Frederick III orchestrating a complete reconstruction that gave the castle its present appearance.
Wiener Neustadt held significance as a major imperial residence for Emperor Frederick III and his son Maximilian I. Maximilian I, pivotal in the growth of the Holy Roman Empire, was born, christened, and spent his early years in the palace at Wiener Neustadt. The grandeur of the empire expanded from this strategic location, reaching immense proportions. After Maximilian I’s death, he was laid to rest in St. George’s Cathedral, fulfilling his wish to have his mortal remains beneath the high altar.
Empress Maria Theresa played a pivotal role in the castle’s history by transforming it into the world’s oldest military academy in 1751. Originally conceived as a training facility for both noblemen and commoners, the military academy evolved into the cadre school of the Habsburg Empire. Each year, a new cohort of well-trained men and women is groomed within its walls.
Emperor Frederick III’s mysterious initials, AEIOU, find a potential explanation during a guided walk in front of the castle’s renowned coat of arms wall. The academy’s mission, as conveyed by Empress Maria Theresa to her first commander, emphasizes the dual objective of producing capable officers and righteous individuals. The institution’s evolution from a planned facility for 100 noblemen and 100 commoners to the prominent cadre school of the Habsburg Empire underscores its historical importance.
Museum St. Peter an der Sperr
The St. Peter a der Sperr Museum, situated on Petersgasse in Wiener Neustadt, Lower Austria, is housed in a historic structure that was once a Dominican convent. The museum is architecturally connected to the St. Peter a der Sperr display church.
A noteworthy event in the museum’s history occurred with the unveiling of its new permanent collection on April 10, 2016, following nine months of renovation and redesign. The presentation marked an “Open Day,” showcasing a collection rearrangement aimed at adopting a novel approach based on the distinctive characteristics of the city’s history and the traceability of developmental lines from its past to the present.
In August 2016, archaeological excavations in front of the museum led to the discovery of two medieval tombs. These findings were uncovered during preparations for the planned refurbishment for the Lower Austrian State Exhibition 2019, titled “World in Motion – City.History.Mobility.” Subsequent to the discovery, the mayor’s garden, forecourt, and entrance portal underwent reconstruction in anticipation of the state exhibition. Additionally, new passages and transitions were established between the former city museum and the museum church of St. Peter a der Sperr, accompanied by the refurbishment of cloister corridors. The restoration efforts unveiled historic stones, wall decorations, and the restoration of antique windows.
The rebranded museum, now named Museum St. Peter a der Sperr, underwent a comprehensive conversion under the supervision of the architecture company koup architekten ZT gmbh. The revival of the building, which included refurbishments and the integration of new features, incurred a total cost of five million euros.
The interconnection between the city museum and the museum church, as well as the incorporation of historical elements, showcases a deliberate effort to create a cohesive and immersive experience for visitors. The archaeological discoveries, particularly the medieval tombs, add an additional layer of historical significance to the museum’s surroundings. The substantial investment and meticulous restoration work signify a commitment to preserving and presenting the cultural and historical heritage of Wiener Neustadt. The comprehensive transformation not only revitalized the physical structure but also established a renewed narrative, emphasizing the continuity and evolution of the city’s history.
Flugmuseum Aviaticum
The Flugmuseum Aviaticum, located at the civil airfield Wiener Neustadt/Ost in Wiener Neustadt, showcases exhibits and replicas primarily focused on Austria’s gliding history. Initially housed in a 400 m2 space at Flugplatz Ost, belonging to Diamond Aircraft, the museum had to relocate in 2019 due to the expiration of the rental contract and Diamond’s own requirements. The exhibits found a new home in a historic aircraft hangar on the opposite side of the runway. Although an official reopening is pending, the museum currently accommodates group visits with prior notice.
The museum’s origins trace back to the collection of Toni Kahlbacher (1914-2004) and Reinhard Keimel, pioneers who envisioned an Austrian gliding museum in Hundsheim/Spitzerberg from 1983. However, this plan couldn’t materialize in that location. In 1993, collaboration between the city of Wiener Neustadt, the state of Lower Austria, and Diamond Aircraft Industries GmbH led to the establishment of Aviaticum in its current facility at the east airport in 1999. The museum operates under an association and is grounded in the private foundation Flugmuseum Aviaticum, founded by Kahlbacher and the city of Wiener Neustadt.
The museum’s collection encompasses 10 early gliders and motor planes, featuring notable aircraft such as Etrich-Taube (Anton Ott, Mag. Linner), Olympia-Meise, and Rhönlerche, along with a helicopter boasting a 7-meter rotor. Additionally, the collection includes parachutes, one originating from the Cultural Revolution in China, and a 900 m3 rubberized canvas gas balloon. In 2000, the museum acquired a valuable book collection focusing on aeronautics and the history of flight.
Among the aircraft on display, notable examples include a Messerschmitt Bf 109, a Meteor FL 54, a Pischof Autoplan created by Anton Ott, and a Lohner-Etrich Taube Series-F constructed by Prof. Mag. Heinz Linner and Anton (Toni) Ott. These exhibits contribute to the museum’s objective of preserving and presenting Austria’s aviation heritage, specifically emphasizing its gliding history. The relocation to a historic hangar enhances the museum’s setting and accommodates visitors interested in exploring the evolution of flight in Austria.
Familie Fehrs Oldtimer Museum
The new vintage automobile museum, curated by Friedrich and Ronald Fehr, seasoned collectors with a 30-year history in amassing antique cars, caters to classic car enthusiasts. Housed at Stadionstraße 36a, the museum spans two floors and showcases top-tier classics in a manner that captivates enthusiasts. The collection features classic automobiles designed to evoke a desire for country road trips, presenting extravagant one-offs alongside elegant technological marvels.
Situated at the same location is a restaurant where guests can immerse themselves in the enchantment of Roadstars while enjoying refreshing drinks, great coffee, or indulging in a Swiss-style steak. The restaurant cleverly integrates the display of vintage cars, allowing the “lovely old boys” to be showcased in optimal lighting. A glass wall divides the café and showroom, providing visitors with an exquisite view of the elegantly illuminated vehicles.
For those seeking a more hands-on experience, the museum offers the opportunity to rent one of the exquisite exhibits for an overland excursion. The collection on display typically ranges from 50 to 70 vehicles, with all but four maintaining their original condition, allowing examination from all angles. The classification spans Youngtimers from the age of 20, classic vehicles from the age of 30, and veterans from the age of 40. Notable inclusions in the collection are a municipal vehicle special show featuring a MUT garbage truck and a photographic opportunity with the Triumph Spitfire.
The museum extends its offerings to include historic automobile parking spaces in the underground car park, enhancing the overall experience for visitors. Additionally, the presence of a studio subterranean parking, as described by Franz Baldauf Photography, adds a unique touch to the venue. The studio is characterized by its unusual design with a hollow trowel, devoid of edges, creating an optically infinite space.
Kasematten Wiener Neustadt
Extensive archaeological investigations, building research, and restorations conducted in preparation for the Lower Austrian State Exhibition from 2017 to 2019 have unveiled significant insights into the history of Wiener Neustadt, particularly in the area of the casemates in the southwest of the old city fortifications.
The building history analysis marked the first precise tracing of the city wall, moat, and Zwinger wall, shedding light on consistent growth in medieval and early modern architecture from the 13th century onward. Transformations in the weir system aligned with evolving city defense needs, adapting to changes in weapon technology. The oldest section, the “Strada Coperta,” showcases these changes, including a 16th-century bastion upgrade for transporting large artillery pieces during potential invasions.
The exhibition introduces visitors to the facility’s winding system through a layout and explanation, highlighting key findings from the 13th to the 20th centuries. Discoveries include a 13th-century oil mill in a wealthy townsman’s house, revealing insights into oil extraction and medieval reuse of rare stone material. Notable artifacts like the “Kruseler Püppchen,” a 14th-century pipe clay playing figure, and an early playing piece provide glimpses into everyday history. The casemates’ history is traced to the present, encompassing material from the tumultuous 20th century.
Film sequences and exhibits demonstrate the operation of 16th-century crossbows and weapons, providing a tangible connection to the past. A 3D animation illustrates the evolution of the fortifications over centuries, emphasizing their role in the city’s defense system. A tactile, lit city map made of Corian caters to the sight-challenged, allowing them to feel the 18th-century city architecture, enhancing accessibility.
Cultural mediation efforts include listening stations with insights from building researcher MMag. Ronald Woldron, providing individual guests with informative narratives. 3D animation and the tactile city map are utilized in guided tours and workshops, fostering engagement. Tailored programs cater to different age groups, ensuring an inclusive and educational experience.
The exhibition, titled “The City as a Fortress,” focuses on the casemates’ historical significance, bringing to life their unique role in Wiener Neustadt’s history. The comprehensive exploration of the facility, from its architectural evolution to its cultural and historical impact, positions this museum as a distinctive and vital contributor to understanding the city’s past and present.
Stadttheater Wiener Neustadt
The Stadttheater Wiener Neustadt, situated at Herzog-Leopold-Straße 17-21 in Wiener Neustadt, Lower Austria, occupies the former monastery church of the Carmelite convent. Originally constructed around 1668 as a slender two-story structure with a hipped roof, the building underwent significant transformations under Joseph II. During this period, both the monastery and the church were secularized, with the church repurposed into a theater. In 1793, the façade received renovations in classicist forms. The Municipal Theater officially opened its doors in 1794.
The interior features a compact two-tier theater, accommodating 624 people, which underwent refurbishment and modernization in 1977-1979. The updates included the installation of an iron curtain designed by the painter Wolfgang Hutter. Notably, the former furniture of the monastery church, such as the high altar, side altar, pulpit, organ, and sacristy cabinet, found a new home in Wolfpassing at the Hochleithen Parish Church.
Christoph Dostal has been serving as the artistic director of the theater since the summer of 2016.
Wiener Neustadt Cathedral
The Wiener Neustadt Cathedral, also known as Liebfrauendom, is a late Romanesque church located in Wiener Neustadt, Lower Austria. Originally designated a parish church in 1279, it gained the patronage of the Holy Virgin Mary and St. Rupert. From 1468 to 1785, it served as the cathedral of the Diocese of Wiener Neustadt, belonging to the Duchy of Styria and the Archdiocese of Salzburg.
The cathedral’s unique position and orientation are integral to medieval town design, with its axis running through the center pointing to where the sun rose on Pentecost Sunday in 1192, marking Duke Leopold V’s enfeoffment with Styria. This historical event is commemorated in the municipal plan, and the cathedral’s floor plan was drawn from a specific portal point. The differing orientation days explain the prominent axis bend between the nave and chancel, later replaced by the Gothic choir.
The mother parish privileges from Lanzenkirchen were transferred to Wiener Neustadt in 1207, and the parish church underwent expansions, including a Gothic transept and chancel in the 14th century. Noteworthy additions include life-size wooden statues of the 12 apostles by Lorenz Luchsperger and the early Baroque pulpit gifted by Melchior Khlesl. The late Baroque high altar, consecrated in 1776, features an altarpiece by Gianbettino Cignaroli depicting the Assumption of Mary.
In 1870, the Romanesque and Gothic Karner Wiener Neustadt hl. Michael were demolished. The cathedral’s towers, initially damaged by earthquakes in the 19th century, were reconstructed between 1892 and 1899 under the guidance of architect Richard Jordan. A morning earthquake in 1972 caused minor wall collapses but resulted in no injuries.
A comprehensive restoration effort from 1975 to 1999, led by Bishop Florian Kuntner and Domprovost Heinrich Hahn, revitalized the cathedral both internally and externally. In 2020, Franz Xaver Brandmayr assumed the role of provost, succeeding Karl Pichelbauer, who had retired.
The south tower of the cathedral serves as a repository for pictures, documents, and artifacts related to the cathedral’s construction history and the functions of the fire station. The Wiener Neustadt Cathedral stands as a testament to its rich history, undergoing strategic renovations and embodying a blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architectural elements.
Collegiate Church Of The Holy Trinity
The Holy Trinity Parish and Collegiate Church, situated at the crossroads of Ungargasse and Neuklostergasse 1 in Wiener Neustadt, is a Roman Catholic monastery church affiliated with the Neukloster Abbey. The church has a rich history dating back to the establishment of the Dominican convent before 1250 at the Hungarian Gate.
Originally, the Dominican church had a late 13th-century basilica structure, but after being taken over by the Cistercians in 1444, it underwent significant remodeling. Damaged in the 1433 town fire, the church was expanded to the west with the addition of a Barbara chapel and a cross chapel in 1453, contributions from Emperor Friedrich III and Duke Albert VI. Master builder Peter von Pusika oversaw the reconstruction.
The church further underwent alterations over the centuries, including the construction of a baroque high altar in 1699 and the transformation of the Kreuzkapelle into a baroque masterpiece by Franz Wagner in 1744. Earthquakes, fires, and bombings in 1734, 1834, and 1944, respectively, led to various repairs and reconstructions, including the replacement of the pen-side tower with a turret in 1649.
In 1893, Dominik Avanzo re-gothicized the Barbara chapel, showcasing the evolving architectural styles embraced by the church. The church’s floor was raised, and an organ gallery was erected in 1734, contributing to its present form.
The Neukloster Abbey, with its arcades and inner courtyard, stands in close proximity to the church, emphasizing the integral role of the monastery in the historical context. The church’s architecture reflects a blend of late Gothic, baroque, and subsequent styles, shaped by various reconstruction efforts and adaptations to changing needs over the centuries.
Capuchin Church of St. James
The Capuchin Church of St. James in Wiener Neustadt is a remarkable Roman Catholic High Gothic Minorite church, later transformed into a baroque Capuchin monastery church. Positioned at Bahngasse 23, it stands adjacent to a Capuchin monastery with a monastic garden, adding to its serene ambiance.
The historical roots of the site trace back to the establishment of a Franciscan monastery (Minorites) before 1250. The Minorite Church, mentioned in a 1267 letter seeking indulgences for church visits, underwent construction and expansion, including the construction of the long choir in 1330.
The Reformation brought destruction to the monastery, and it was later handed over to the Capuchins in 1623. Subsequent to a town fire in 1625, the Capuchins began the restoration and consecration of altars in 1628 and 1629. Significant alterations occurred, including the remodeling of the lengthy choir into an early baroque hall area and its reorientation to the west.
The architectural evolution is evident in the preservation of Gothic elements, such as vault services, shield ribs, rib attachments, and walled tracery windows above the baroque barrel vault. Notable features include a three-arched ribbed vaulted seating niche on the south side of the former Gothic chancel.
The church houses captivating artworks, including an 18th-century crucifixion group on the upper altar wall and altarpieces by Anton Wagenschön, portraying St. Francis and Felix von Cantalice with the Christ Child and Mary.
The Konrad chapel, dedicated in 1747, contains a reliquary glass tomb of St. Brother Konrad and Gothic statues of Mary with child and James the Elder. Additionally, a votive painting by GA Waßhuber depicting the town fire of 1699 adds historical depth to the Konrad chapel.
In the Trinity Chapel, an altarpiece by Father and painter Dariusz Kochanski from 2000 enhances the sacred ambiance. Above this chapel lies a square room with a late Gothic ribbed ceiling from the 15th century, previously part of the Minorite Church’s nave vault, and it now serves as a connection to the monastery library, built in the 17th century.
Various artifacts contribute to the church’s cultural richness, including a 17th-century Baroque baptismal font, a 1905 organ, and a Passion arcade with statues from the early 18th century. The statues depict scenes from the Passion of Christ, such as carrying the cross, Ecce homo, Mount of Olives, farewell to Mary, Christ on the torture column, and crowning with thorns.
Church of St. Anton am Flugfeld
The Roman Catholic parish of St. Anton am Flugfeld, situated at Flugfeld belt 17 in Wiener Neustadt, Lower Austria, has a unique history tied to the development of aviation in the region. Initially part of the provost parish of Wiener Neustadt and later integrated into the Deanery of Wiener Neustadt, it ultimately became part of the Vicariate Unter dem Wienerwald of the Archdiocese of Vienna.
The origins of this parish can be traced back to the establishment of an airport in Wiener Neustadt in 1909, marking a significant era in Austrian aviation. Post World War I, municipal structures, including the Dr.-Karl-Renner-Hof, were erected. In the 1920s, efforts were initiated to build a church, leading to the transformation of the abandoned central heating boiler house of the air force barracks into a church between 1933 and 1934. The church, dedicated in 1934, creatively repurposed the previous chimney into a distinctive three-story bell tower in 1937. Notably, the tower, instead of a conventional cross, featured two flashing lights for the adjacent airstrip.
Elevated to the status of a parish church in 1939, the church suffered severe damage during World War II. Subsequent renovations and expansions occurred from 1960 to 1964 under the guidance of architect Josef Patzelt. The church underwent a modern transformation into a rectangular hall building with a gabled roof, featuring three significant arched windows on each side wall. Renowned artists Grete Frank and Josef Adamcik contributed to the renewal, designing glass windows and a mural along with three paintings, respectively.
In a pivotal development, on April 1, 2019, the parish of St. Anton was lifted, marking a transition in its administrative structure. The old parish church of St. Anton am Flugfeld now functions as a branch church within the parish church of Wiener Neustadt and serves as the dedicated parish church of St. Anton.
Parish Church of the Heart of Mary
The Roman Catholic parish of St. Anton am Flugfeld, situated at Flugfeld belt 17 in Wiener Neustadt, Lower Austria, has a unique history tied to the development of aviation in the region. Initially part of the provost parish of Wiener Neustadt and later integrated into the Deanery of Wiener Neustadt, it ultimately became part of the Vicariate Unter dem Wienerwald of the Archdiocese of Vienna.
The origins of this parish can be traced back to the establishment of an airport in Wiener Neustadt in 1909, marking a significant era in Austrian aviation. Post World War I, municipal structures, including the Dr.-Karl-Renner-Hof, were erected. In the 1920s, efforts were initiated to build a church, leading to the transformation of the abandoned central heating boiler house of the air force barracks into a church between 1933 and 1934. The church, dedicated in 1934, creatively repurposed the previous chimney into a distinctive three-story bell tower in 1937. Notably, the tower, instead of a conventional cross, featured two flashing lights for the adjacent airstrip.
Elevated to the status of a parish church in 1939, the church suffered severe damage during World War II. Subsequent renovations and expansions occurred from 1960 to 1964 under the guidance of architect Josef Patzelt. The church underwent a modern transformation into a rectangular hall building with a gabled roof, featuring three significant arched windows on each side wall. Renowned artists Grete Frank and Josef Adamcik contributed to the renewal, designing glass windows and a mural along with three paintings, respectively.
In a pivotal development, on April 1, 2019, the parish of St. Anton was lifted, marking a transition in its administrative structure. The old parish church of St. Anton am Flugfeld now functions as a branch church within the parish church of Wiener Neustadt and serves as the dedicated parish church of St. Anton.
Parish Church Of St. Leopold
The parish church of St. Leopold in Wiener Neustadt, located at Wiener Straße 61, holds historical significance as a Roman Catholic branch church. Initially established as a Jesuit church in 1737, it was part of a late Baroque complex that included a Jesuit college. Funded by Field Marshal Franz Leopold von Zungaberg, the church and college were connected by an upper floor corridor.
Following the dissolution of the Jesuit order in 1773, the church gained parish status in 1791. The former Jesuit college underwent various roles, serving as the Salzamt in 1773, a military hospital from 1783 to 1903, the Stadtmuseum Wiener Neustadt from 1904 to 1990, and finally, the Stadtarchiv Wiener Neustadt since 1992.
Architecturally, the church is a square hall building featuring two cross-oval vaulted bays, a south-facing vestibule with ancillary rooms, a recessed gallery connecting to the former Jesuit college, a tower, and a square chancel to the north. The adjacent benefactor house, a two-story baroque structure, connects the church courtyard to the neighboring property at No. 59. A small baroque crucifixion group stands on the church forecourt, offering a glimpse into the historical surroundings.
Of note is the presence of the Catholic-Austrian student association Babenberg zu Wiener Neustadt, housed in the church’s basement since 1984. Affiliated with the middle school student cartel association, this association contributes to the church’s ongoing role as a community hub.
Castle of Wiener Neustadt
The Wiener Neustadt Castle, a fortress-style complex dating back to the 12th century, holds historical significance as the residence of Emperor Maximilian I in the 15th century. Not only was Maximilian I born in the castle, but he was also laid to rest there after his death in 1519. Since 1752, the castle has served as the location for the Theresian Military Academy.
Despite its military role, the Wiener Neustadt Castle is open to the public, featuring the exhibition “From the Imperial Residence to the Officers’ Forge,” established in 2019 through collaboration with the Lower Austrian State Exhibition. The exhibition provides a journey through the castle courtyard, showcasing the coat of arms wall and St. George’s Cathedral. It explores Maximilian I’s transition from the last knight to the first gunner, emphasizing his role as a late Middle Ages social media celebrity. A 3D animation narrates the castle’s historical transformation, and the second section of the exhibition focuses on officer training, offering insights into the processes and traditions of the Theresian Military Academy. The visit concludes with a presentation on vocational training available to current officer trainees in Austria.
St. George’s Cathedral within the castle complex is a late Gothic hall cathedral constructed by Peter of Pusica between 1440 and 1460. Originally known as the Marien- or Frauenkapelle, it was renamed Georgskirche when Frederick III established it as the seat of the Order of St George. Emperor Maximilian I was buried beneath the steps of the high altar in 1519. Although much of the cathedral was lost during World War II, it was reconstructed in 1945 using Kaisersteinbruch white sandstone. St. George’s Church became the seat of the military bishop in 1963 and attained cathedral status in 1987. Since 1990, the military bishop of Austria has held the titular seat in the now disbanded diocese of Wiener Neustadt.
The Academy Park and Academy Cemetery, initially drained by Friedrich III, were transformed into a public space of 186 hectares open to the public since Maria Theresa’s reign, later developed into an English park. The Academy Cemetery is situated on the outskirts of this park.
A significant feature in the vicinity is the Rose Hill, marked by a stone obelisk at the intersection of Fohlenhof-Allee and Große Querallee. The marble obelisk commemorates royal visits to the Academy from 1769 to 1918, featuring a sphere depicting the midday line. The site was historically associated with an erstwhile “Gloriette,” where Archduchess Maria Theresa is rumored to have married Franz von Lorraine in 1735.
Wiener Neustadt Water Tower
The Wiener Neustädter Wasserturm, situated on Südtiroler Platz in Wiener Neustadt, stands as both a city landmark visible from a distance and a significant industrial monument with historical ties to the Kaiser Franz Joseph water pipeline.
The water tower’s origin traces back to the early 20th century when an application and consent were secured between 1902 and 1903 for a municipal deep spring water pipeline. The construction of this pipeline commenced in 1909 under the supervision of C. Korte and Co. In tandem with this project, the water tower was commissioned and built by master builder Anton Koblischek from 1909 to 1910, based on designs by architects Siegfried Theiss and Hans Jaksch. The water tower became operational on December 13, 1910.
Characterized by a tapering circular base, the tower features a partially windowed shaft divided by pilaster strips. The polygonal container housing is supported by a bracket rim and crowned with a steep mansard-style tented roof.
During World War II, the water tower suffered partial destruction, leading to reconstruction efforts in 1950-1951, which included the installation of new windows.
While still an integral part of the water supply infrastructure, the water tower no longer serves as a storage tank. Instead, its role has evolved into that of a control tank, overseeing the activation and deactivation of well pumps. The tower’s elevation ensures a temporary water supply in the event of a power outage, showcasing its continued functional relevance in contemporary water management.
Aqua Nova
Aqua Nova, located on the outskirts of Wiener Neustadt, promises an engaging and diverse experience for visitors seeking relaxation or family-friendly entertainment during a swimming day.
The adventure zone at Aqua Nova caters to a wide audience, featuring a 100-meter slide, bubbles, wild water areas, a waterfall, and a whirlpool. These elements collectively create an atmosphere of excitement and fun for visitors looking to escape the pressures of everyday life.
For those inclined towards sports, Aqua Nova provides a dedicated section with pools designed for elders, children, and non-swimmers. Additionally, a 25-meter-long sports pool is available for those seeking more structured aquatic activities. This ensures that the facility accommodates individuals with varying preferences and swimming abilities.
The sauna area at Aqua Nova adds a touch of tranquility to the experience, offering amenities such as an earth and bio sauna, as well as a steam chamber. Guided infusions in the sauna contribute to the overall relaxation experience, providing a holistic approach to well-being.
Beyond aquatic and wellness offerings, Aqua Nova extends its services to include amenities such as a hairdresser, cosmetics, and massage services, enhancing the overall experience for visitors looking for additional pampering and self-care.
To satiate the culinary needs of guests, Aqua Nova features a restaurant within its premises, providing a convenient option for those seeking refreshments or a meal during their visit.
Crucially, Aqua Nova positions itself as a year-round destination, emphasizing its commitment to serving water enthusiasts and relaxation seekers regardless of the season. This accessibility underscores its dedication to providing a consistent and reliable experience for visitors throughout the entire year.
Akademiepark
The Academy Park in Wiener Neustadt stands as a sprawling haven, offering a serene environment for relaxation and various sports activities such as jogging, cycling, and horseback riding. The expansive roads within the park create an ideal setting for unwinding and enjoying the tranquility.
Covering a substantial area of 186 hectares, the Academy Park has become a pivotal local recreation space, providing ample room for extended walks amidst nature. The park boasts extensive collections of antique wood, including trees that have thrived for over a century. This rich variety of trees not only contributes to the park’s aesthetic appeal but also serves as a habitat for diverse species, fostering a thriving ecosystem. The green expanse of the park provides a sanctuary for wildlife such as deer, rabbits, and pheasants.
The Kehrbach, a 16-kilometer-long man-made canal, flows directly through the Academy Park. Initially designed to fill the castle moat, the canal now adds a scenic water feature to the park’s landscape.
Central to the park is the pioneer pond, strategically located and fed by a canal branching from the Mühlbach. Originally serving as a training ground for pioneering technology, the pond has evolved into a habitat for fish and a nesting ground for wild ducks and various waterfowl.
Theresienplatz welcomes visitors with the prominent Maria Theresa Monument, strategically positioned across from the Academy. The monument, unveiled in 1862, features a central figure of Maria Theresa and four allegorical characters symbolizing religion, justice, wisdom, and strength. Crafted in bronze, these statues adorn a pedestal made of polished Mauthausen stone. The monument’s unveiling, attended by Emperor Franz Joseph I and dignitaries, marked a significant event in 110 years of the Academy’s existence. Additionally, two fountains flanking the monument add to the aesthetic appeal of Theresienplatz, enhancing the overall ambiance.
Stadtpark Wiener Neustadt
Wiener Neustadt’s City Park stands as a verdant oasis nestled between the city center and the military academy, enriching the urban landscape with its lush greenery. Characterized by meandering pathways and strategically placed seating, the park creates an inviting environment, encouraging visitors to leisurely enjoy its tranquil ambiance.
At the heart of the park lies a sprawling playground, featuring the tallest play tower in Lower Austria. This expansive play area caters to children of all ages, providing a diverse and engaging space for recreation.
For those seeking a moment of repose amidst historic surroundings, “Café Tscherte” offers a serene retreat near the casemates. The café’s patio provides a delightful setting where patrons can relax within the protective embrace of the historic bastion’s solid walls. From this vantage point, visitors can relish a spectacular view of the City Park, enhancing the overall experience.
The park’s centerpiece is a picturesque pond, serving as a focal point for visitors of all ages to unwind and connect with nature. This tranquil water feature adds to the park’s charm, providing a serene backdrop for moments of relaxation and contemplation.
