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Mariensäule: A Testament to Faith and History

Discover the Mariensäule on Henriettenplatz, a historic monument in Vienna's Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus, commemorating the end of a plague epidemic and showcasing Viennese resilience.

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The Mariensäule, located on Henriettenplatz in Vienna's Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus district, is more than just a monument; it's a symbol of gratitude and resilience. Erected in 1713, it commemorates the end of a devastating plague epidemic, a testament to the city's enduring faith and hope. The column features a statue of the Virgin Mary atop a decorative column, surrounded by angelic figures. While its religious significance has faded over time, the Mariensäule remains a cherished landmark, often serving as a focal point for local events and a reminder of Vienna's rich history. Its presence adds a touch of historical charm to the bustling Henriettenplatz, inviting visitors to pause and reflect on the city's past.

A brief summary to Mariensäule

  • Henriettenpl., Vienna, Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus, 1150, AT
  • Visit website
  • 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

  • Take a moment to observe the intricate details of the column's sculptures, including the Virgin Mary, angels, and symbolic figures representing war, heresy, hunger, and plague.
  • Visit Henriettenplatz during a local event or market to experience the square's vibrant atmosphere and see the Mariensäule as a focal point of community life.
  • Explore the surrounding Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus district, known for its diverse culture, local shops, and traditional Viennese cafes.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Mariensäule is easily accessible by public transport. Take tram line 9 to the Henriettenplatz stop, which is directly adjacent to the square where the column is located. Alternatively, the U3 and U6 subway lines stop at Westbahnhof, which is approximately a 10-minute walk to Henriettenplatz. A single ticket for public transport within Vienna costs €2.40.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus district, reaching Henriettenplatz and the Mariensäule is easily done by foot. From Wien Westbahnhof train station, walk south along Mariahilfer Straße, then turn left onto Clementinengasse. Henriettenplatz will be on your right. The walk is approximately 10 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-sharing service from Wien Westbahnhof to Henriettenplatz will cost approximately €8-€12, depending on traffic and the specific service. The journey typically takes around 5-10 minutes.

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Discover more about Mariensäule

The Mariensäule on Henriettenplatz in Vienna's 15th district, Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus, stands as a poignant reminder of the city's history and its enduring spirit. This Marian column, erected in 1713, commemorates the end of a devastating plague epidemic that swept through Vienna. It serves not only as a religious symbol but also as a historical marker, reflecting the city's resilience and faith in the face of adversity. The column itself is a work of art, featuring a statue of the Virgin Mary, the 'Immaculata', standing gracefully on a sphere with a snake and crescent moon, atop a decorative column adorned with angels and clouds. At the base, statues of St. Anna, St. Joachim and St. Joseph stand as protectors. The monument's triangular base bears inscriptions that further elaborate on its purpose and dedication. The Mariensäule is a testament to the artistic and religious sensibilities of the early 18th century. The history of Marian columns, like the Mariensäule, is rooted in the tradition of erecting religious monuments to thank the Virgin Mary for her intervention in times of crisis. These columns often feature a statue of the Virgin Mary or a depiction of the Holy Trinity, and they are typically surrounded by statues of various saints. The first Mariensäule in Vienna was erected in 1667, followed by the Pestsäule (Plague Column) in 1679. The Mariensäule on Henriettenplatz, while not as grand as the Pestsäule, carries a similar significance for the local community. Henriettenplatz, where the Mariensäule is located, is a bustling square in the heart of Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus. The square is a hub of activity, with local shops, cafes, and a vibrant atmosphere. The Mariensäule provides a focal point for the square, offering a moment of tranquility amidst the urban bustle. It's a place where locals gather, children play, and visitors pause to admire the monument's beauty and historical significance. While the Mariensäule may not be as widely known as some of Vienna's more famous landmarks, it holds a special place in the hearts of the residents of Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus. It's a symbol of their community's history, their faith, and their resilience. The monument serves as a reminder of the challenges they have overcome and the values they hold dear. Visiting the Mariensäule offers a unique opportunity to experience a different side of Vienna, away from the grand palaces and bustling tourist attractions. It's a chance to connect with the city's local culture and to appreciate the beauty and significance of a monument that has stood for over three centuries. Although the religious importance of the column has faded somewhat, the Mariensäule still occupies a soft spot in Viennese hearts. Not least because it often sits at the centrepiece of events like the Am Hof Christmas and Easter markets. (You may find the monument partly obscured should such an event be taking place.) If you've seen the 1638 Mariensäule on Munich's Marienplatz square, then the Viennese version feels similar. And for good reason: the Munich version inspired the Viennese one. Around the base of the plinth, four Putti deal similar fates to a snake, basilisk, lion, and another dragon (representing heresy, plague, war and famine). The Mariensäule on Am Hof square goes back to Emperor Ferdinand III's act of gratitude for just such an intervention. First built in 1647 after Vienna emerged unscathed from the Swedish invasion; Current Marian column replaced the marble original in 1667; Famously missing from the Third Man movie; Book a two-hour walking tour* in Vienna; See also: The Plague column · Baroque Vienna. The Marian column. (The column and surrounding balustrade). The term Mariensäule (Marian column) refers to a column topped by a representation of the Virgin Mary, usually erected in gratitude by a monarch or municipal authority for some significant event. In the case of the Mariensäule on Vienna's Am Hof square, we must travel back to 1645 and the final phase of the Thirty Years' War. At the time, a Swedish army was happily marching its way through Lower Austria and eventually occupied the fortress of Korneuburg, just a few miles up the Danube from Vienna. Things looked grim for the Habsburg emperor of the time: Ferdinand III. When you're a monarch, appealing to higher powers than yourself involves limited options. But Ferdinand promised that if the Swedes left Vienna alone, he'd put up a monument in honour of the Virgin Mary by way of thanks for positive intervention from above. Habsburg forces even recaptured Korneuburg in 1646. Ferdinand had dodged a bullet (or musket ball, as the case may be). So, true to his word, the Emperor had the Mariensäule built in marble by a certain Johann Jakob Pock with the unveiling in 1647. Pock and his brother contributed a further important work to Viennese history: the main altar in Stephansdom cathedral.

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