Explore the Majestic Imperial Crypt in Vienna
Discover the Imperial Crypt, Vienna's royal resting place, showcasing exquisite tombs of the Habsburg dynasty and rich imperial history.
The Imperial Crypt, or Kapuzinergruft, serves as the final resting place for the members of the Habsburg dynasty and is one of the most significant historical sites in Vienna. Nestled beneath the Capuchin Church, this crypt is a blend of solemnity and artistry, showcasing majestic tombs and intricate sarcophagi that reflect centuries of royal history. Visitors can marvel at the elaborate designs and the stories behind each tomb, offering a profound connection to Austria's imperial past. As you walk through the dimly-lit chambers, you'll encounter the ornate crypts of influential figures such as Emperor Franz Joseph I and Empress Elisabeth, known fondly as Sisi. The atmosphere is both reverent and awe-inspiring, making it a perfect spot for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike. The crypt is adorned with exquisite artworks and sculptures, each telling a story of love, loss, and legacy. Open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, the Imperial Crypt is easily accessible and well-integrated into Vienna’s rich tapestry of attractions. It is advisable to plan your visit during weekday afternoons to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience with the poignant history encapsulated within its walls. The surrounding area, steeped in architectural beauty, provides a picturesque backdrop for photos and leisurely strolls. Immerse yourself in the stories of emperors and empresses and discover the grandeur of the Habsburg legacy at this remarkable site.
Local tips
- Visit during weekday afternoons for a quieter experience.
- Take your time to read the inscriptions on the tombs for deeper insights into history.
- Photography is allowed, but be respectful of the solemn atmosphere.
- Check for guided tours that may enhance your understanding of the history.
A brief summary to Imperial Crypt
- Tegetthoffstraße 2, Vienna, Innere Stadt, 1010, AT
- +431512685388
Getting There
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Public Transport - Tram
From Hernals, make your way to the nearest tram stop, 'Hernals, Koppstraße'. Board tram line 43 in the direction of 'Zentralfriedhof'. Travel for approximately 10 minutes until you reach 'Schottentor'. Here, transfer to tram line 1 or 71 at the 'Schottentor' stop. Board tram line 1 heading towards 'Prater Hauptallee' or tram line 71 towards 'Simmering'. Get off at 'Karlsplatz'. From 'Karlsplatz', it’s about a 12-minute walk to the Imperial Crypt.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk from Hernals, start at 'Hernals, Koppstraße' and head towards the main road, 'Hernalser Hauptstraße'. Follow it until you reach the 'Alser Straße' intersection. Turn left onto 'Alser Straße' and continue straight. You'll eventually reach the 'Ringstraße'. Continue walking straight until you see the 'Karlskirche' on your right. The Imperial Crypt is located just a short walk from here at 'Tegetthoffstraße 2'.
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Public Transport - Bus
From Hernals, find the nearest bus stop like 'Hernals, Pötzleinsdorferstraße'. Take bus line 10A towards 'Heiligenstadt' and get off at 'Schottentor'. From there, you can either walk (as described above) or transfer to tram line 1 or 71 to reach 'Karlsplatz' and walk the remaining distance to the Imperial Crypt.
Attractions Nearby to Imperial Crypt
- Capuchin Church, llc
- Kapuzinerkloster
- Concerts Capuchin Church
- Donnerbrunnen
- Gallery at the Albertina - Zetter GmbH
- Theatermuseum
- Palais Lobkowitz
- Maltese Church, Vienna
- Helmut-Zilk-Platz
- K.u.K. Café-Konditorei L. Heiner.
- MYTHOS MOZART
- Monument Against War and Fascism
- Café Mozart
- Café Frauenhuber
- Augustinerkirche
Landmarks nearby to Imperial Crypt
- Palais Grundemann Esterházy (Grundemann von Falckhenberg)
- House of Music
- Haas-Haus
- Time Travel Vienna
- Deutschordenskirche
- Column of Pest
- Swiss court, Hofburg Vienna
- Hercules and the Nemean lion fountain
- Franciscan Church, Vienna
- Burggarten
- Kaiser-Franz-Joseph-Denkmal
- Looshaus
- Franz Stephan von Lothringen Statue
- Neue Burg - Teil der Wiener Hofburg
- Josefsbrunnen