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Wiener Secessionsgebäude

Innere Stadt, AT

Wiener Secessionsgebäude

Architect Josef Maria Olbrich built this Jugendstil (German-style Art Nouveau) building 1897-98 as a display space for artists working in the new Secession artistic movement. It is topped by a giant, frothy golden ball, lovingly called ''Krauthappel'' by the Viennese, but the building was definitely

not loved when it first opened. Notice a reactionary Viennese pattern here? The opera building too was hated at first, but at least it was not called a ''temple for bullfrogs'' or ''a bastard begot of temple and warehouse'' as the this building was. The entryway features the motto of the Secessionist movement: ''Der Zeit ihre Kunst, der Kunst ihre Freiheit'' (to the time, its art, to the art, its freedom). Olbrich's mentor Otto Wagner, and also Gustav Klimt, whose astounding ''Beethoven Frieze'' is partially preserved in the basement, inspired the building's design. The ceremonial front entrance is separate from the functional glass and steel exhibit hall in back.

Listen to the audio guide for Wiener Secessionsgebäude Free on WIP — starts by itself when you arrive, even with the screen off

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