Musikverein

You’re now standing between two buildings devoted to art and music. On your left is the Musikverein, home to Vienna’s Music Society. Inaugurated in 1870, this concert hall is world-renowned for its acoustics. It’s also the seat of the Vienna Philharmonic and the orchestra’s permanent residence. The famous Vienna New Year’s Concert is held each year in its legendary Golden Hall. On your right, you’ll see the Künstlerhaus, or “House of Artists.” Built in the late 19th century, it was designed to host exhibitions of paintings, sculptures, applied arts, and architecture. Whilst the Musikverein was funded by a group of musicians, the Künstlerhaus was financed by a collective of artists. Renovated in 2020, it now focuses mainly on contemporary art, with a rich programme of exhibitions and cultural events.