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Leuchtturm Sunken City: A Theatrical Landmark on the Danube

Discover Vienna's quirky side at the Leuchtturm Sunken City, a repurposed theatrical prop turned iconic landmark on the Donauinsel.

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The Leuchtturm Sunken City, or Lighthouse Sunken City, is a unique and intriguing structure located on the Donauinsel in Vienna, Austria. It began its life as a stage prop for Richard Wagner's opera "The Flying Dutchman" during the Bregenz Festival in 1989 and 1990. Today, it stands as a quirky landmark and a symbol of the Donauinsel's vibrant atmosphere.

A brief summary to Leuchtturm Sunken City

  • An der Neuen Donau, Vienna, Donaustadt, 1210, AT
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during sunset for beautiful views of the Danube and the Vienna skyline.
  • Rent a bike and explore the extensive cycling paths along the Donauinsel.
  • Enjoy a picnic by the water with views of the Leuchtturm.
  • Check the Donauinsel event calendar for festivals and activities happening near the Leuchtturm.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From central Vienna, take the U1 subway line towards Leopoldau. Get off at the Donauinsel station. Follow the signs towards the Donauinsel exit. Once above ground, walk northeast along the Neue Donau riverbank for approximately 10-15 minutes. The Leuchtturm will be visible on your left. A single ride on the Vienna U-Bahn costs €2.40.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Stephansplatz in central Vienna to Leuchtturm Sunken City will take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €25-€35. Direct the driver to An der Neuen Donau, near the Sunken City area.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to An der Neuen Donau, 1210 Wien. Limited paid parking is available in the vicinity. Parking fees typically range from €2-€4 per hour, with a daily maximum of around €20. Alternatively, consider parking further away and walking or cycling to the location.

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Discover more about Leuchtturm Sunken City

The Leuchtturm Sunken City is not a functioning lighthouse guiding ships, but rather a repurposed theatrical prop that has found a new life as a tourist attraction. The structure is reminiscent of a classic lighthouse, with a cylindrical tower and a lantern room at the top. However, closer inspection reveals its theatrical origins, with details that are more about creating an illusion than serving a practical purpose. Originally, the lighthouse was a key element in the set design for Richard Wagner's opera "The Flying Dutchman" during the 1989 and 1990 seasons of the Bregenz Festival. In David Pountney's production, the lighthouse played a dramatic role, most notably as the spot from which the character of Senta throws herself into Lake Constance. After its stint on the Bregenz stage, the set pieces were dismantled, and the lighthouse was transported to Vienna. In 1991, the structure was re-erected in front of the Technisches Museum Wien (Vienna Technical Museum) as part of an exhibition called "Phantasie und Industrie" (Fantasy and Industry). In 1997, it was once again disassembled and moved to its current location on the Donauinsel. The Donauinsel is an artificial island created in the 1970s and 1980s as part of a flood control project. This 21-kilometer-long island separates the Danube River from the Neue Donau, a parallel channel that provides a recreational area for the city. Today, the Leuchtturm Sunken City stands as a quirky landmark. It's a popular spot for taking photos and enjoying the views of the river. The surrounding area offers a range of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants, making it a great place to spend an afternoon or evening. The Donauinsel is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, cycling, and various water sports.

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