The tower called Narrenturm was built in 1784 and back then it was the first psychiatric hospital in the world. The rotunda offered solitary cells for 139 inmates. It is part of the area that had back then been the general hospital of Vienna, since 1998 it's the campus of the main university. Because its shape resembles the ring cake Viennese often also call it Guglhupf.
Nowadays the tower is home to Vienna's Pathologic-anatomical Museum and has recently been renovated. With its new facade, it has been stripped of some charm. But certain alterations were restored so that the current appearance would return to its original state. One can have a look at human and animal exhibits, a lot of diseases (should get some people to start using condoms each and every time!) and malformations, but also medical devices that make you wonder on what planet they might have been in use.
They have a new exhibition titled "Pathways of Pathogenes" which sheds light on the various causes of a pandemic as well as historical and present-day ways of spreading diseases.
This museum is definitely something one doesn't get the chance to see in every city. Be aware of the limited opening hours - this way the visit is just more exclusive ;)
Spitalgasse 2
Ticket:
€
8
152177605
Explore Vienna like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Vienna guide.
"Emmerich" is a 'Buschenschank' in Vienna - a small wooden stand in a vineyard where the owners offer their spritzer and small plates. Go enjoy the view!
By
The Kent family of restaurants is well known in Vienna as vibrant outposts of Turkish culinary delights with their classic array of appetizers, charcoal-grilled skewers, kebab, and many other highlights.
By
The architecture is simple, light, and modern and allows the creative food and drinks to shine. Arguably one of the finest in Liesing, it still boasts very reasonable prices and ventures into the many flavors of Asia.
By
The Lobau is a national park made of meadows and forests that can be reached via subway and yet it's a world of its own. The perfect escape from city life is a walk in the National Park.
By
The noodles just really taste so different if they are hand-made. The decoration of the plates and drinks is lovely and adds to the overall culinary experience.
By
A long-time resident of Vienna, Sohyi Kim bridges Korean cuisine with Viennese traditions reaching an outstanding culinary level.
By
In the trendy 7th district of Vienna the concept store musette (small "muse" in French) stands out with its thought-through selection of products assorted around a topic.
By
The bar fits perfectly into the lobby of the famed Austrian pavilion of the Expo 1958 in Brussels, so much so that you might think it was always there.
By
They will make it hard for you to choose from the abundance of sweet (and salty) delicacies. Eastern European and Viennese pastries come in huge portions and diversity.
By
159 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 159 Insider Tips from our local Spotters