Vienna
Permanent collection

Imperial Crypt: Explore the Royal Tombs of the Habsburg Dynasty in Vienna

This significant historical site beneath the Capuchin Church narrates centuries of Austrian imperial history.

Delve into the rich heritage of the Austrian Habsburgs at Vienna's Imperial Crypt, a profound historical site within the Capuchin Church. This sacred space preserves the sarcophagi of over 150 dynastic members, including emperors and empresses. Discover the elaborate memorials, from Maria Theresia's grand tomb to the modest resting place of Joseph II, offering a unique journey through imperial history.

About Imperial Crypt at Am Hof Square in Vienna

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for Imperial Crypt at Am Hof Square in Vienna

Exhibition summary

The Imperial Crypt, located beneath the Capuchin Church, serves as the final resting place for 150 members of the Austrian Habsburg dynasty. It houses the sarcophagi of emperors, empresses, and other notable figures, telling the story of their lineage.

Curatorial context

The Imperial Crypt, situated under the Capuchin Church in Vienna, is a significant historical site dedicated to the final resting place of members of the former Austrian Habsburg dynasty. It contains the sarcophagi of approximately 150 individuals, including 12 emperors and 19 empresses and queens, narrating the dynastic history through their memorials. Notable interments include the magnificent double sarcophagus of Maria Theresia and her husband, Emperor Franz I. Stephan von Lothringen, a masterpiece by Balthasar Ferdinand Moll, and the plain sarcophagus of her son Joseph II. The last emperor buried here was Franz Joseph I in 1916, with the sarcophagi of Empress Elisabeth and Crown Prince Rudolf also located within the crypt, which is maintained by Capuchin monks. The last interment took place in 2023, marking the end of available space. The Hearts' Crypt, holding the hearts of Habsburgs from 1654 to 1878, is located in the Church of the Augustinian Friars.

Admission and ticket notes

Standard ticket price is 15€, with a reduced price of 12€. Guided tours are available in German and English at specific times. The crypt is accessible, though some areas have steps. Details about tickets and tours can be found at kaisergruft.com.

Imperial Crypt key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for Imperial Crypt at Am Hof Square in Vienna

Venue
Am Hof Square
Current status
Permanent collection
Exhibition schedule
Permanent display (no announced closing date)
Artist line / attribution
Works by Balthasar Ferdinand Moll are featured, including the double sarcophagus of Maria Theresia and Emperor Franz I. Stephan von Lothringen.
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