Places of Interest in Vienna

National Theatre (Burgtheater)

Dr Karl Lueger Ring 2, A-1010 Wien, Tel: 5144 44145, Website: www.burgtheater.at, U-Bahn: Herrengasse

Originally known as the Theatre of the Imperial Court, the Burg Theatre is one of the oldest playhouses in Europe, with only Comédie Francaise of Paris (which was formed in 1680) beating it for age. Its current home, which dates back to 1888, was built in a neo-Renaissance style and serves as a fitting venue for what is considered to be the world’s leading German speaking theatre. Visitors should be aware that all performances are in German, so people with limited knowledge of the language will find little value in buying tickets for a performance.

However, it’s certainly worth taking a look at the theatre’s lavish interior by going on a tour that lasts approximately 30 minutes. Of particular note are two grand staircases, one of which was used by those in the Imperial Court, the other by members of the public. In addition, you’ll find ceiling frescoes by Gustav Klimt and his brother Ernst.

The large auditorium was redesigned following war damage and is capable of holding nearly 1500 people.

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