Statues and animals in the meadow of Pötzleinsdorfer Schlosspark, Vienna.

Discover Pötzleinsdorfer Schlosspark in Vienna’s Währing district—a hidden gem with lush landscapes, historical landmarks, and a unique connection to Austria’s rich past. Perfect for nature lovers and history buffs alike!

Austria by Public Transport

Pötzleinsdorfer Schlosspark is a beautiful park in the Währing district of Vienna. It covers 354,000 square meters and offers a peaceful retreat for Vienna’s residents, as well as a safe space for wildlife to roam. The park is considered one of the most attractive in Vienna, and it is surrounded by picturesque hills that add to its charm.

The park’s history begins in the 18th century when designers created it as an English landscape garden. Until 1935, prominent families like the Herbersteins and Geymüllers owned the park. The Geymüller family, who also owned a nearby palace, bought the park and transformed it into an English landscape garden in 1799. In the 19th century, the park became a popular meeting spot for Vienna’s upper class.

Visitor Tips

Because of the presence of wild animals, dogs are not allowed in the park. Like many green spaces in Vienna, Pötzleinsdorfer Schlosspark closes at night. During winter, the gates close around 4 PM, while in spring and fall, they close around 6 PM. In summer, the gates close around 8 PM, although the main gate stays open the longest.

After the Geymüller family went bankrupt, Max Schmidt bought the park and later gifted it to the city of Vienna in 1935. Today, visitors can enjoy sports fields, playgrounds, the Greek Temple, and the Monument of Austrian Poet Johann Baptista von Alxinger. Additionally, there is a collection of statues that once stood at a theater near Schottenring.

A vintage blue upholstered chair with a wooden frame, set against a background featuring a scenic view of Belvedere Palace in Vienna, symbolizing the luxurious lifestyle associated with the noble families who frequented areas like Pötzleinsdorfer Schlosspark.
The Schmidt company, known for its exquisite furniture, served Vienna’s elite, including families in districts like Döbling. The company ceased operations in 2020 following the passing of one of its owners.

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Pötzleinsdorf Castle
A Historical Landmark

Pötzleinsdorf Castle, located next to the park, was closely connected to the estate’s owners. Over the years, the castle went through many renovations. In 1951, workers removed the external staircase, which resembled the one at Schönbrunn, because the estate was in poor condition. Today, a private school occupies the castle.

An informative graphic displaying portraits of historical figures from the Geymüller family, set against a background of Austrian banknotes, emphasizing their role in founding the Austrian National Bank.
Did you know? The Geymüller family was one of the founders of the Austrian National Bank.

Statues from the Ringtheater

The statues represent four voices: soprano, alto, tenor, and bass. Originally, they decorated the façade of the Ringtheater at Schottenring, a building completed in 1874 under Emil von Förster’s direction. Unfortunately, the theater burned down in 1881, tragically claiming the lives of 386 people.

A historic image of Vienna's Ringtheater, which tragically burned in 1881. The sculptures from the theater are now located in Pötzleinsdorfer Schlosspark.
The 1881 Ringtheater fire in Vienna led to the relocation of several sculptures to Pötzleinsdorfer Schlosspark, where they still stand today, preserving the memory of this tragic event.

More Interesting Facts:

  • The identification of the fire victims marked the first use of forensic dentistry, considered the beginning of forensic odontology.
  • In response to the fire, Vienna established its first volunteer fire brigade, which later became part of the city’s professional fire department in 1938.
  • The Vienna Crime Museum displays a charred woman’s head from the Ringtheater fire as a grim reminder of the tragedy.
  • Emil von Förster, the architect of the Ringtheater, also designed notable buildings like the Presidential Palace in Ljubljana and the Dorotheum in Vienna. He also participated in the renovations of the Belvedere Palace and Burgtheater in Vienna.

The Greek Temple

The Greek Temple in the park is named after Marie Preindl, one of Vienna’s most beautiful courtesans in the 19th century. It was rumoured that she was the mistress of one of the Geymüllers. Although the term “courtesan” originally referred to a lady of the court, it later described women involved in the arts, such as actresses, singers, and dancers.

Pötzleinsdorfer Schlosspark offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich history, making it a must-visit spot in Vienna. Whether you’re exploring its serene landscapes, uncovering its historical secrets, or simply enjoying a peaceful day outdoors, this park provides a unique escape from the city. Don’t miss the chance to experience one of Vienna’s most charming and historically significant green spaces!

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austriabyoeffis.at 21 August 2024, 11:51