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Birke (16/23) für Johanna Dohnal: A Living Memorial in Ottakring

A poignant tribute to Austria's first Minister for Women, nestled in Vienna's vibrant Ottakring, inviting reflection on gender equality and feminist history.

Birke (16/23) für Johanna Dohnal is a birch tree in Vienna's Ottakring district, serving as a memorial to Johanna Dohnal, Austria's first Minister for Women. Part of an art project by Isabella Kresse, it's one of 23 such memorials across Vienna, challenging the underrepresentation of women in public spaces.

A brief summary to Birke (16/23) für Johanna Dohnal

  • Unnamed Road, 1160, Vienna, Ottakring, AT

Local tips

  • Take a moment to reflect on Johanna Dohnal's contributions to women's rights and gender equality in Austria.
  • Explore Ottakring, a diverse district with working-class roots and a vibrant multicultural atmosphere.
  • Look for the simple concrete plaque at the base of the birch tree with the inscription 'Für Johanna Dohnal'.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Birke (16/23) für Johanna Dohnal is located in Ottakring, Vienna. From the city center, take the U3 (orange line) to Ottakring station. From there, the tree is a short walk away. A single ticket for public transport within Vienna costs €2.40. Alternatively, consider a 24-hour ticket for €8.00 or a 48-hour ticket for €14.10 if you plan to use public transport extensively.

  • Walking

    From Ottakring U-Bahn station, exit and walk along the unnamed road. The birch tree is located along this road. The walk is short and straightforward.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking is available at Park + Ride Ottakring at Huttengasse 41. The daily maximum is €4.40. From there, it is a short walk to the memorial. Other garages are available in Ottakring, but availability may vary.

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Discover more about Birke (16/23) für Johanna Dohnal

Birke (16/23) für Johanna Dohnal is more than just a tree; it's a poignant symbol of remembrance and a catalyst for reflection on the ongoing struggle for gender equality. Part of a larger art project conceived by Isabella Kresse in 2011, this birch tree, located in Vienna's 16th district, Ottakring, is one of 23 such memorials scattered throughout the city, each dedicated to the memory of Johanna Dohnal, Austria's first Minister for Women. Johanna Dohnal (1939-2010) was a towering figure in Austrian politics, a staunch feminist, and a tireless advocate for women's rights. Her career was marked by groundbreaking achievements, including the establishment of the first women's shelter in Vienna and the passage of landmark legislation promoting gender equality. Dohnal faced considerable opposition throughout her career, yet she remained steadfast in her commitment to creating a more just and equitable society for women. Isabella Kresse's art installation serves as a powerful reminder of Dohnal's legacy and the continued relevance of her work. By planting birch trees in parks predominantly named after men, Kresse challenges the historical underrepresentation of women in public spaces and seeks to 'infiltrate' the city's patriarchal identity. The birch tree, chosen for its resilience and its status as a 'pioneer plant,' symbolizes Dohnal's own strength and determination in the face of adversity. Each tree is accompanied by a simple concrete plaque bearing the inscription 'Für Johanna Dohnal' (For Johanna Dohnal). This understated memorial invites passersby to pause, reflect, and consider the significance of Dohnal's contributions to Austrian society. It also serves as a call to action, reminding us that the fight for gender equality is far from over. Visiting the Birke (16/23) für Johanna Dohnal in Ottakring offers a unique opportunity to connect with Vienna's feminist history and to contemplate the challenges and triumphs of the women's movement. Ottakring itself is a vibrant and multicultural district, known for its working-class roots and its diverse population.

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