The neighbourhood between Schwedenplatz and Schottenring was planned as part of the gigantic mid-19thcentury urban development project leading to the construction of the Ringstrasse boulevard. Medieval ramparts, Danube docks and barracks were replaced by elegant, multi-functional town houses of wealthy Jewish textile tycoons built to the designs of the leading architects of the day. But somehow this neighbourhood has never been considered on a par with its grander, more prestigious twin, the Ringstrasse. What gave it the death blow was the Holocaust and severe war damage. But it has re-invented itself in an amazing way. With the help of historic photos and maps we want to put it in the spotlight and introduce you to its diverse history. We tell you about the medieval salt barges moored along the arm of the Danube once flowing through Salzgries street. We take you to one of the oldest churches of Vienna and Theophil Hansen’s iconic Stock Exchange. We show you where philosopher Martin Buber, champion of dialogue and tolerance, was born and talk about Hotel Metropol, its famous guest Mark Twain, and how the Gestapo turned it into Vienna’s most infamous address.
