The Habsburgwarte is a 27-meter-high stone tower perched atop Hermannskogel, the highest point in Vienna. Built in 1888 to commemorate Emperor Franz Joseph I’s 40th jubilee, it was designed by Franz von Neumann Jr. in a Romanesque-Gothic revival style, evoking the look of a medieval watchtower. The tower became a key landmark in Austrian cartography when it was designated as kilometre zero by the Imperial Military Geographic Institute in 1892. Despite damage during World War II, it was restored and continues to serve as a public observation point. Operated by the Austrian Tourist Club, the Habsburgwarte is open on weekends from spring to autumn, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Vienna’s scientific and architectural heritage.
Vienna AustriaThe Habsburgwarte is an observation tower located atop the Hermannskogel hill, the highest natural point in Vienna, in the 19th district called Döbling (postal code 1190 Wien-Döbling). It was completed in 1888 and stands as a prominent medieval-style tower that offers outstanding panoramic views of Vienna and its surroundings. Nearby, the tower is surrounded by the lush green landscapes of the Wienerwald (Vienna Woods) and is part of a popular hiking area with trails such as the City Hiking Path 2. Visitors can explore nearby points like the Gasthaus zum Agnesbrünnl, a traditional Viennese mountain inn, and the scenic vineyards around Cobenzl. The location provides a blend of nature, history, and leisure opportunities, making it ideal for hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere outside the city center.