Discover the Cemetery of the Nameless: A Unique Historical Site in Vienna

The Cemetery of the Nameless is a unique historical site in Vienna where people washed ashore by the Danube between 1840 and 1940, many unidentified, were buried. This dedicated riverine burial ground, once frequently flooded and now preserved and accessible, offers a poignant glimpse into the city's past connection with the river and its tragic events.

The Friedhof der Namenlosen, or Cemetery of the Nameless, stands as a singular testament to Vienna's historical relationship with the Danube River. Between 1840 and 1940, this site served as the final resting place for countless individuals who drowned or were victims of crime and subsequently washed ashore by the river, their identities often unknown. The cemetery's older section, now overgrown by the forest, holds the graves of 478 unidentified dead from 1840 to 1900, a poignant reminder of the river's unpredictable nature. The last burial took place in 1940, and while the river's course has shifted, preventing further bodies from being washed ashore, the cemetery remains as a protected and accessible historical site. Visitors can reach it via a designated footpath, offering a quiet and reflective experience amidst the trees, highlighting its unique status as a burial ground exclusively for river victims.

The cemetery is accessible during daylight hours. Entry to the property is at your own risk. Access may be restricted during cargo handling operations. Filming and photography are permitted for private use only; commercial use requires permission from the landowner. Entry after dark is prohibited. The chapel and mortuary can be visited by appointment.