Death at Court – Last Resting Places of a Dynasty
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| Vienna’s imperial burial sites are far more than mere places of repose — they are magnificent monuments to centuries of European history and artistry. This evocative walk leads from St. Stephen’s Cathedral to two of the most significant dynastic burial sites, the Imperial Crypt (Kaisergruft) beneath the Capuchin Church, and the Heart Crypt (Herzgruft) in St. Augustine’s, the former court church. At St. Stephen’s, behold the monumental late Gothic marble tomb of Emperor Frederick III, its surface adorned with 240 finely carved figures of saints and apostles. In 2013, remarkable photographs taken from inside the tomb revealed one of the most elaborate royal burials ever discovered in medieval Europe. At the Capuchin Church, admire the sumptuous Rococo sarcophagus of Empress Maria Theresa and Emperor Francis I, a masterpiece of imperial splendour. Then uncover the fascinating story behind the 54 Habsburg hearts interred separately in silver urns — a tradition steeped in faith, symbolism, and dynastic ritual. Along the route, you will learn about the ceremonies, embalming methods, and grand funeral processions that transformed the death of a monarch into a display of power, devotion, and everlasting prestige — the final act of theatre in the life of a dynasty that governed Europe for centuries. |
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| Meeting Point | 1., Helmut-Zilk-Platz, next to the monument |
| Dates | There are no dates for this tour but it can be booked individually for a group |
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| Fax: +43 1 774 89 33 | |
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