10 fun and interesting Vienna facts

1. Vienna Beats Berlin as Top German City

Vienna was once the largest German-speaking city in the world, but as of 2013, it has been surpassed by Berlin. This is a remarkable shift, considering that Vienna was the imperial capital of the Austro-Hungarian Empire for centuries, and was home to some of the most influential figures in German-speaking culture. Despite this, Berlin has now become the largest German-speaking city in the world, with a population of over 3.5 million people.

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2. The City of Dreams and Music

Vienna, known as the 'City of Dreams' due to its association with Sigmund Freud, is also renowned as the 'City of Music'. This is because more famous composers have lived in Vienna than any other city in the world, including the likes of Mozart, Beethoven, Haydn, Schubert, and Strauss. As such, Vienna is a city steeped in musical history and culture, making it a must-visit destination for music lovers.

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3. World's Top Destination for Congresses/Conventions

Vienna has been the world's number one destination for international congresses and conventions since 2005, and it continues to be the top choice for many organizations. This is due to its excellent infrastructure, modern facilities, and wide range of accommodation options. Vienna also offers a unique cultural experience, with its rich history, vibrant art scene, and world-class cuisine. With its combination of convenience and culture, it's no wonder Vienna has been the go-to destination for international congresses and conventions for the past 15 years.

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4. Vienna's Ball Culture is a Must-See

Vienna is renowned for its vibrant ball culture, hosting over 200 Viennese Balls each year. These events are a highlight of the city's social calendar, and attract people from all over the world. The balls are renowned for their grandeur and opulence, with attendees dressed in traditional Viennese attire and dancing to the sounds of the Viennese Waltz. From the grandeur of the Hofburg Imperial Palace to the historic Kursalon, Vienna's ballrooms provide the perfect backdrop for these magical events. With such a rich history and culture, it's no wonder Vienna is known as the 'ball capital' of the world.

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5. Vienna's Unique Culture and Musical Heritage in Short Songs

Vienna is a city with a unique culture and musical heritage. The city has its own song genre called 'Wienerlied', which is based on the theme of life in Vienna and is usually sung in Viennese. These songs are a reflection of the city's culture and history, and often tell stories of love, loss, and nostalgia. Wienerlied is a beloved genre of music in Vienna, and is often performed in traditional Viennese taverns and restaurants.

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6. Vienna's Zoo is a Must-See

Vienna is home to the world's oldest zoo, the Tiergarten Schonbrunn. Established in 1752, this remarkable zoo has been delighting visitors for centuries with its wide variety of animals, from exotic species to native wildlife. It is a popular destination for families, offering educational programs, interactive exhibits, and a variety of activities for children. With over 500 species of animals, the Tiergarten Schonbrunn is a must-see for anyone visiting Vienna.

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7. See Vienna's Iconic Ferris Wheel

The iconic 'Wiener Riesenrad' Ferris wheel in Vienna is a must-see attraction for any visitor to the city. Built in 1897, it was the tallest Ferris wheel in the world from 1920 to 1985, standing at a staggering 65.5 metres tall. It is still the oldest surviving Ferris wheel in the world and is a symbol of Vienna's rich history and culture.

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8. Vienna's population boom

In 2012, Vienna experienced a population boom, becoming the fastest growing city in German speaking countries with an influx of at least 25,000 new residents. This marked a significant increase in the city's population, which had previously been growing at a much slower rate. The influx of new residents has had a positive impact on the city, with new businesses and services being established to meet the needs of the growing population. This has helped to create a vibrant and diverse city, with a wide range of cultural and recreational activities available to its residents.

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9. The Wine Capital

Vienna is a city with a unique distinction - it is the only world capital that produces large amounts of wine within its city limits, earning it the nickname of the 'Wine Capital'. With over 1,700 hectares of vineyards, Vienna produces a variety of wines, including Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, and Zweigelt. The city's wine production is a major part of its economy, with the wine industry contributing over €1 billion to the city's GDP each year.

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10. Vienna's Pez Candy Makes History

In 1927, Vienna made history as the first place to market and sell the iconic candy 'Pez'. This revolutionary candy was created by Eduard Haas III, an Austrian candy maker, who wanted to create a peppermint candy that was easy to carry and consume. The candy was an instant hit in Vienna, and soon spread to other parts of Europe and eventually the world. Today, Pez is a beloved candy enjoyed by people of all ages, and its success can be traced back to its humble beginnings in Vienna.