A guided tour of the Kasematten, the 12th-century fortifications. Buried beneath an earthen rampart for centuries, the Kasematten were restored and uncovered for the 2019 Lower Austria Provincial Exhibition. From the outside, visitors can marvel at the city wall with its embrasures, embedded cannonballs and battlements. The historic Kasematten were originally designed as a defensive structure and thus formed an essential part of the city’s fortifications.
Founded in 1192 by the Babenbergs using the ransom money paid for Richard the Lionheart, Wiener Neustadt enjoyed its heyday under the Habsburgs in the 15th century, when Emperor Frederick III chose it as his imperial residence. His son, Maximilian I, was born and baptised in Wiener Neustadt Castle in 1459. He is also buried here in the magnificent St George’s Cathedral. On the city walk ‘History and Stories in the Heart of the City’, you will follow in the footsteps of the Habsburgs – and in particular the Last Knight – at the original locations.
Since 2020, the renovated museum has been showcasing the town’s history and its permanent collection. A particular highlight is the Corvinus Cup, a late-Gothic lidded goblet dating from the 15th century. Regular special exhibitions and cultural events round off the museum’s programme.
From the Imperial Residence to a training ground for officers
A tour of the Theresian Military Academy, where, in just under an hour and a half, you’ll discover the meaning behind the inscription ‘A.E.I.O.U.’, why Emperor Maximilian I is buried between heaven and earth, and how officer training works today.
The history of Wiener Neustadt beer stretches back a long way – and its legacy is still clearly visible today. Accompanied by our town’s qualified beer sommelier, you’ll embark on a journey through time via taste, sampling traditional and new beers with insightful commentary in the historic Kasematten. You’re guaranteed to learn something new!
