Wien Itävalta Architecture
Vienna is a magnificent city, boasting incredible architectural richness. St. Stephen's Cathedral is a magnificent Gothic church, later slightly enriched with elements of other trends. The Habsburg palace originated from Middle ages, and with numerous additions and refurbishments in the course of years it developed into a unique complex, merging various styles in perfect harmony.The construction of amazing Baroque and Classicist edifices should be greatly attributed to the reign of Empress Maria Theresa and Emperor Joseph II, the heyday of Viennese Classicism. They commissioned many ambitious projects to such renowned architects as Johann Lukas von Hildebrand and Josef Emanuel Fischer von Erlach. Majestic Karlskirche was created at that time.
Baroque epoch, flourishing in the Congress of Vienna period and the second half of 19th century, when the city acquired political dominance, was marked by construction of numerous museums and opera houses, and complete restructurising of the central Ring boulevard on request of Emperor Franz Joseph I.
The turn of the 19th century highlighted one of the most fascinating styles in the history of modern art. Vienna was the birthplace of art deco, or "Jugendstil". Otto Wagner was one of the most influential designers, who defined the city's present look. He elaborated the concept of the Vienna tube network, which considerably expanded since then, but retained architect's influence. Among other landmarks are Majolica House at the Naschmarkt and the spectacular Postparkasse. Secession building, one of the art deco museums, with its cupola of golden laurel leaves, is rated as one of the most fascinating examples of the style.
Vienna showcases not only traditional, but also modern and experimental architecture. Adolph Loos introduced minimalist functional style. Friedensreich Hunderwassen founded strikingly original style with prevalence of curved lines and rich colours. Among the examples of his creative work the famous KunstHaus Wien. Hans Hollein's glass and concrete Haas House was a striking innovation, which in that time raised some controversy, but later became one of the well-known Modernist buildings.