Heeresgeschichtliches Museum

The Heeresgeschichtliches Museum (Museum of Military History) in Vienna, Austria, is one of the oldest and most significant military museums in the world. Located in the historic Arsenal complex, it provides a comprehensive look at Austrian military history, from the late Middle Ages through the 20th century, including the World Wars and beyond.

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Heeresgeschichtliches Museum

Arsenal, Objekt 1

A-1030 Wien

Austria

www.hgm.or.at

contact@hgm.at

+43 1795 610

Every day (except Friday) 09:00 – 17:00

Closed Fridays, 1 January, Easter Sunday, 1 May, 1 November, 25. and 31 December

Admission fee

All visitors have free admission on each first Sunday of the month

Children younger than 10 are free of admission

Schnellbahn (Station Sudbahnhof)

Tram lines 18, D, O

Bus lines 13A, 69A

Underground/subway U1 (Station Sudtirolerplatz)

Underground/subway U3 (Station Schlachthausgasse)

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Aircraft collection

Saab J29F Tunnan 29566 O Austrian Air Force Heeresgeschichtliches Museum Vienna, Austria

20.01

7A+WN

29566/O

13

 Albatros B.1

Fiesler Fil 156C-3 Storch

Saab J29F Tunnan

Saab 35 O Draken

Saab 35 O Draken 13 Austrian Air Force Heeresgeschichtliches Museum Vienna, Austria

Overview

  • The Heeresgeschichtliches Museum was established in the mid-19th century under Emperor Franz Joseph I and is housed in a beautiful Neo-Renaissance building completed in 1856.
  • It offers a vast and diverse collection of weapons, uniforms, military equipment, and historical documents, making it an essential visit for history enthusiasts.

Key Exhibits

The Heeresgeschichtliches Museum is organized into several sections, each focusing on a different era or theme in Austrian military history:

1. Early Military History (16th to 18th Century)

  • This section explores the Austro-Turkish wars, the rise of the Habsburg Monarchy, and the pivotal battles that shaped early modern Europe.
  • Notable exhibits include the Turkish tents captured during the Siege of Vienna in 1683 and the ceremonial armor of Prince Eugene of Savoy.

2. Napoleonic Wars and the 19th Century

  • This section covers Austria’s involvement in the Napoleonic Wars, the Austro-Prussian War, and the decline of the Habsburg Empire.
  • It features artifacts such as uniforms, swords, and paintings depicting famous battles, as well as personal items of Archduke Charles, a key figure in the Napoleonic Wars.

3. World War I

  • One of the museum’s highlights is its extensive World War I collection, which includes the actual Gräf & Stift automobile in which Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife Sophie were assassinated in Sarajevo in 1914, sparking the onset of the war.
  • The exhibit also includes uniforms, weapons, and equipment from the Austro-Hungarian army, as well as documents related to the Treaty of Saint-Germain, which ended the war for Austria.

4. World War II

  • This section details Austria’s involvement in World War II, including its annexation by Nazi Germany, the role of Austrian soldiers in the Wehrmacht, and the impact of the war on Austria.
  • The displays include artillery, small arms, and uniforms, as well as sobering exhibits on the war’s destruction and aftermath.

5. Post-War Era and Modern Military History

  • Exhibits focus on Austria’s neutral status after World War II, the establishment of the Austrian Armed Forces (Bundesheer), and Austria’s participation in UN peacekeeping missions.
  • This section includes modern military vehicles, aircraft models, and technological advancements in the Austrian military.

Special Exhibits & Activities

  • Temporary Exhibitions: The Heeresgeschichtliches Museum regularly hosts special exhibitions focusing on various aspects of military history, often timed to anniversaries or historical events.
  • Guided Tours: Available in multiple languages, these tours provide deeper insights into the exhibits and the historical context of Austria’s military past.
  • Educational Programs: Workshops, lectures, and interactive activities are offered for students, history enthusiasts, and families.

Architectural Highlights

  • The museum building itself is a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture, with a grand central hall featuring ornate frescoes, sculptures, and stained-glass windows that depict Austria’s military history.
  • The Hall of Fame showcases statues of key Austrian military figures, making it an impressive space to explore.

Why Visit?

The Heeresgeschichtliches Museum is a must-visit for those interested in the military and political history of Austria and Europe. Its extensive and meticulously curated collection provides a fascinating journey through the events that shaped the region’s history over centuries. Beyond its impressive exhibits, the museum’s architecture and location in the historic Arsenal add to its allure.