Austria Vienna Wien Square

Freyung

About

Freyung is a historic square in Vienna’s Inner City, known for its rich architectural and cultural heritage. Originally outside the Roman fortifications of Vindobona, it gained prominence in the 12th century with the founding of the Schottenstift monastery by Irish monks. The name “Freyung” derives from the old German word for “free,” reflecting the monastery’s medieval privilege to offer asylum. Over time, the square became a hub for aristocratic residences, banking institutions, and public life. Notable landmarks include the Baroque Palais Harrach, the ornate Palais Kinsky, and the Austria Fountain, which symbolizes the empire’s major rivers. The Ferstel Passage, part of Palais Ferstel, adds a touch of elegance with its vaulted ceilings and upscale shops. Today, Freyung hosts traditional Easter and Christmas markets, preserving its legacy as a vibrant civic space. Its blend of history, architecture, and seasonal charm makes it a compelling destination for visitors exploring Vienna’s cultural heart.

Vienna Austria

Location

Freyung is a distinctive triangular square located in Vienna’s historic Innere Stadt, the first district of the city. It sits just northwest of the city center, close to major landmarks like the Graben and Kohlmarkt shopping streets, and is easily accessible on foot from the Hofburg Palace and Stephansdom. The square’s name reflects its origins as a place of asylum, with the monastery historically offering protection to fugitives. Today, Freyung is surrounded by impressive Baroque and historicist architecture, including several grand palaces such as Palais Kinsky, Palais Harrach, and Palais Ferstel—the latter housing the renowned Café Central and the elegant Freyung Passage shopping arcade. The centerpiece of the square is the Austriabrunnen, a 19th-century fountain symbolizing Austria and the main rivers of the Habsburg Empire. The Schottenkirche, part of the original monastery complex, stands prominently on the square and features a museum with medieval and Renaissance art. Freyung also hosts lively farmers’ and seasonal markets, especially during Christmas and Easter, making it a vibrant destination for both locals and visitors. Nearby attractions include the Austrian National Library and other historic squares like Am Hof, further enhancing Freyung’s appeal as a gateway to Vienna’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.