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Türkenkugel: A Golden Reminder of Vienna's Resilience

Visit the Türkenkugel in Vienna's Innere Stadt, a gilded symbol of resilience against the Ottoman siege in 1683, rich with cultural heritage.

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The Türkenkugel, a gilded cannonball on Am Hof 11, commemorates Vienna's resilience during the 1683 Ottoman siege. It serves as a reminder of the city's strength and cultural identity, marking a pivotal moment in Viennese history.

A brief summary to Türkenkugel

Local tips

  • Take a moment to appreciate the intricate details of the monument and the historical ambiance of Am Hof square.
  • Explore the surrounding streets and squares to experience the vibrant cultural tapestry of Vienna.
  • Visit nearby attractions, cafes, and shops to get a taste of local Viennese life.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Stephansplatz, walk northwest along Graben, then turn left onto Am Hof. The Türkenkugel is located on the corner of Am Hof and Färbergasse, on the right side of Am Hof 11.

  • Public Transport

    Take the U3 line to Herrengasse station. Exit and walk towards Am Hof. The Türkenkugel is located on the corner of Am Hof and Färbergasse, on the right side of Am Hof 11. A single ride on the Vienna U-Bahn costs around €2.40.

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Discover more about Türkenkugel

Nestled on the historic Am Hof square in Vienna's Innere Stadt, the Türkenkugel is a gilded cannonball symbolizing the city's enduring spirit and resilience. This unique monument commemorates the second siege of Vienna in 1683, when the Ottoman Empire attempted to breach the city's walls. According to local legend, a cannonball fired by the Ottoman forces struck a building on Am Hof. Michael Motz, the owner of the building and a member of the local council, decided to immortalize the event. He had the cannonball gilded in gold and mounted on the building's facade, renaming the establishment "Zur goldenen Kugel" (At the Golden Ball). Over the centuries, the original building was replaced, but the Türkenkugel was carefully preserved and integrated into the new structure at Am Hof 11. Today, visitors can see the gilded cannonball affixed to the corner of the building, accompanied by a commemorative plaque. The plaque reads: "Türkenkugel aus dem Jahre 1683 – später eingemauert und vergoldet – gab der einst hier befindlichen Gastwirtschaft und dem Haus den Namen. EA-Generali" (Turkish ball from the year 1683 - later walled in and gilded - gave the name to the former inn and the house. EA-Generali). Am Hof itself is a historically significant square, once the heart of the Babenberg dynasty's court in the 12th century. Over time, it evolved into a marketplace and a stage for important historical events. The square's blend of historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and modern amenities makes it a perfect starting point for discovering the city's many treasures.

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