The Austrian Parliament

The Austrian Parliament

The Vienna audio-guided tour stops you before the Austrian Parliament, one of the most remarkable monuments of the Ring. Recognisable by its Neo-Classical style inspired by ancient Greek architecture, it houses the country's legislative assemblies.

A temple of democracy

The Parliament was built as part of the development of the Ringstrasse, between 1874 and 1883. Strongly marked by his trip to Athens, the architect adorned the building with references to ancient Greece. In 1867, after the Austrian defeat against Prussia, the Austro-Hungarian Compromise gave rise to a dual monarchy replacing the Habsburg Empire of Austria; the Parliament hosted the Austrian part of this new empire until its dissolution in 1918.

What there is to see

In front of the building, the fountain is topped with a monumental statue of Athena, goddess of wisdom. On the staircase ramp stand the effigies of ancient historians, while winged victories drive their chariots on the roof. The whole forms a true architectural tribute to Greece, the cradle of democracy. The Parliament can be visited on guided tours.

Practical information

The Austrian Parliament is on the Ringstrasse, in the centre of Vienna. The facade and the Athena fountain can be seen freely from the outside. The interior can be visited on guided tours, whose hours and conditions vary; it is best to check in advance, as access may depend on parliamentary activity.

Why does the Parliament evoke Greece ?

Its architect, marked by a trip to Athens, chose the Greek Neo-Classical style, in reference to ancient democracy, with the statue of Athena in front of the building.

When was the Parliament built ?

It was built between 1874 and 1883, as part of the development of the Ringstrasse.