Austria Vienna Vienna Museum

Kunsthistorisches Museum

About

The Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna is a treasure trove of art and history, renowned for its world-class collections spanning five millennia. Its Picture Gallery is a highlight, featuring masterpieces by Vermeer, Rembrandt, Caravaggio, Rubens, Velázquez, and the world’s largest collection of works by Pieter Bruegel the Elder, including "The Tower of Babel" and "Hunters in the Snow"-famous for their intricate detail and lively depictions of 16th-century life. The museum’s Kunstkammer Wien is an extraordinary “cabinet of curiosities,” displaying over 2,000 objets d’art collected by the Habsburgs, from exquisite ivory carvings and miniatures to the legendary gold and enamel "Saliera" salt cellar by Benvenuto Cellini. The Egyptian and Near Eastern Collection is among the world’s most important, with over 17,000 artifacts ranging from ancient sarcophagi to monumental statues and jewelry. The Greek and Roman Antiquities section dazzles with classical sculptures and treasures, while the grand staircase features spandrel paintings by Gustav Klimt and the marble statue "Theseus Defeating the Centaur" by Canova. The building itself, with its opulent dome and Cupola Hall café, adds to the museum’s unique allure.

Vienna Austria

Location

The Kunsthistorisches Museum is located at Maria-Theresien-Platz in Vienna’s city center, directly opposite the Naturhistorisches Museum, creating a striking architectural ensemble. This grand square is named after Empress Maria Theresa and serves as a cultural hub surrounded by historic landmarks. Nearby, visitors can easily access the Hofburg Palace, the former imperial residence, and the Vienna State Opera, both within walking distance. The MuseumsQuartier, home to the Leopold Museum and mumok, is also close by, making the area a vibrant center for art and culture. Public transport connections are excellent, with the Volkstheater U-Bahn station (lines U2 and U3) and several tram lines (1, 2, 49, D, 71) just minutes away, providing easy access from across Vienna. The square itself features beautiful fountains and statues, including a monument to Maria Theresa, enhancing the historic atmosphere. This location places the Kunsthistorisches Museum at the heart of Vienna’s rich artistic and historic district, ideal for combining museum visits with exploring the city’s iconic sights.