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Imperial Crypt: Resting Place of the Habsburgs

Explore the Imperial Crypt in Vienna, the final resting place of Habsburg emperors and empresses, and discover centuries of Austrian history.

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The Imperial Crypt, also known as the Capuchin Crypt, is located beneath the Capuchin Church in Vienna. Since 1633, it has served as the main burial site for members of the Habsburg dynasty, housing the remains of emperors, empresses, and other royals.

A brief summary to Imperial Crypt

Local tips

  • Consider visiting during the week to avoid larger crowds.
  • Check out the contrast between the elaborate sarcophagi of Maria Theresa and the plain design of her son Joseph II.
  • If you are interested in a more in-depth tour, English-language guided tours are available on Wednesdays through Saturdays at 3:30 pm for an additional fee.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Imperial Crypt is easily accessible via Vienna's public transport system. From Stephansplatz station (U1 and U3 lines), walk south along Kärntner Straße, then turn left onto Tegetthoffstraße. The crypt entrance will be on your left. Alternatively, take bus line 2A to the Plankengasse stop, which is a very short walk to Tegetthoffstraße. A single ride on Vienna's public transport costs approximately €2.40.

  • Walking

    Located in the heart of Vienna's Innere Stadt, the Imperial Crypt is within easy walking distance of many major attractions. From St. Stephen's Cathedral, walk south on Kärntner Straße for about 5 minutes, then turn left onto Tegetthoffstraße. The entrance to the crypt will be on your left. From the Hofburg Palace, exit towards Burggarten and walk towards Tegetthoffstraße. The walk is generally flat and pedestrian-friendly.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Vienna. A short ride from a central location like the Vienna State Opera to the Imperial Crypt will typically cost between €8 and €12, depending on traffic and the specific service used. Be sure to confirm the fare or estimated cost before beginning your journey.

  • Parking

    Parking in the immediate vicinity of the Imperial Crypt is limited and can be expensive. The closest parking garage is Tiefgarage Kärntnerring. Expect to pay around €6-8 per hour, or approximately €30 for a full day. Given the central location and excellent public transport options, driving directly to the crypt is not recommended. Consider parking further outside the city center and taking public transport for a more cost-effective and convenient approach.

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Discover more about Imperial Crypt

Descend into the Imperial Crypt (Kaisergruft), also called the Capuchin Crypt (Kapuzinergruft), a poignant and historically significant burial chamber beneath the Capuchin Church in Vienna's Innere Stadt. Founded in 1618 by Anna of Tyrol, the crypt has been the principal burial site for the House of Habsburg since 1633. Over the centuries, the crypt has expanded to ten interconnected vaults, holding the remains of 145 Habsburg royals, including 12 emperors and 18 empresses. Visiting the crypt offers a unique and moving experience, with a reverent atmosphere in the dimly lit chambers. Visitors can view the elaborate sarcophagi of emperors, empresses, and archdukes, reflecting styles from Puritan plainness to intricate rococo. Highlights include the double tomb of Maria Theresa and Emperor Franz I, the sarcophagi of Empress Elisabeth and Crown Prince Rudolf, and the final resting place of Emperor Franz Joseph I. The Capuchin Church, constructed between 1622 and 1632, is a relatively small and simple structure, still run by the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin. The crypt remains an active burial site, with the most recent entombment in 2023. A visit to the Imperial Crypt provides a journey through Austrian history, connecting visitors with the legacies of the Habsburgs.

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