Slightly outside the bounds of the Old City, to the northwest, lies the Ninth District. The buildings in this district are also impressive and ancient, and it is considered very popular among the young people living in the city. One of the reasons for this is that there is a very large campus of the University of Vienna right in the heart of the district. The campus is located in the old hospital complex (Allgemeines Krankenhaus) and is certainly large and beautiful. Many tourists do not enter this campus at all, but especially on spring days, it is worth walking there to enjoy the wonderful blooming of plants in the gardens between the campus buildings.
Recommended Attractions in the Ninth District
1. Votivkirche (Votive Church)
The Votive Church is located close to the Ringstrasse. It’s hard to miss when passing through the Schottentor station area and near the old campus of the University of Vienna. The church was built by Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian as a gesture of gratitude to God for saving his brother, Emperor Franz Joseph, from an assassination attempt. The church began operating in 1879, the year the Emperor and his wife Sisi celebrated their silver wedding anniversary.
The Votive Church is an architectural asset to the city of Vienna and is considered one of the most important churches in the world due to its Neo-Gothic architectural style. It is a stunningly beautiful church that sometimes does not receive the appreciation it deserves, even though it was one of the first buildings constructed near the Ringstrasse. Currently, the church is undergoing extensive conservation and renovation, and therefore it is closed most of the time. However, prayers are held on Sundays, so it is possible to pass by and peek into the magnificent structure. Around the church, there is a wonderful park, and on summer days, comfortable chairs are scattered for the convenience of visitors. Read more information about the church in our detailed article.
Map: Rooseveltplatz, 1090 Wien
2. Palais Liechtenstein (Liechtenstein Palace)
This palace building is one of two magnificent palaces belonging to the noble Liechtenstein family. The palace was built in the 18th century in the Baroque style. The structure is actually divided into two buildings: the Upper and Lower Palaces. Between the buildings, there is a wonderful park. The palace rooms are impressively beautiful, and it is usually used for important events. It is possible to book a guided tour of the palace if you wish.
