Dornbacher Cemetery

Dornbacher Cemetery Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Vienna Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Dornbacher Cemetery (Dornbacher Friedhof), located in Vienna’s 17th district, Hernals, is a significant historical and cultural site. Established in 1883, it reflects Vienna’s evolution from medieval burial traditions to a modern, inclusive urban cemetery. Today, visitors can explore tranquil green spaces, admire artistic monuments, and pay respects at the graves of notable Viennese families, all while experiencing a unique blend of nature, history, and culture. This guide offers comprehensive information on the cemetery’s background, visiting hours, accessibility, notable features, and practical tips to ensure a meaningful visit (GeschichteWiki Wien; Wikipedia; Planet Vienna; Vienna Tourist Guide).

Introduction
Historical Overview
- Medieval Origins and Relocations
- Modern Establishment and Expansions
Layout and Notable Features
Distinguished Burials and Memorials
Artistic and Architectural Heritage
Visiting Information
Visitor Etiquette and Tips
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References

Historical Overview

Medieval Origins and Relocations

Dornbacher Cemetery’s history begins in the 13th century, with its first burial ground adjacent to the parish church at Rupertusplatz, following the European tradition of churchyard graves. This arrangement persisted until the late 18th century, when Emperor Joseph II’s reforms prompted the closure of many city cemeteries for public health reasons. Dornbach’s churchyard was spared for a time due to the parish’s small population but was eventually closed in 1814 (GeschichteWiki Wien).

A new cemetery was established in “Untere Wieden” (now Braungasse/Oberwiedenstraße) and served the community until urban expansion and sanitary concerns led to its closure in 1883 (Planet Vienna). The remains were respectfully transferred to the current site at Alszeile 28, situated on a sloping hillside known as the Alsegg.

Modern Establishment and Expansions

The present-day Dornbacher Cemetery opened in 1883, designed to accommodate all denominations at a time when many cemeteries were still confessionally segregated. Its inclusive ethos and modern planning reflected the city’s ongoing urbanization and commitment to diversity.

Post-World War II, several expansions increased the cemetery’s size to 44,047 square meters, with new grave groups and updated infrastructure. The mortuary hall, built between 1966 and 1968 by architect Erich Boltenstern, is distinguished by Hermann Bauch’s mosaic glass window and apse decoration, blending modernist art with the cemetery’s historical character (Wikipedia; Planet Vienna).

Layout and Notable Features

Dornbacher Cemetery features a traditional grid layout with approximately 4,778 graves. Its tree-lined avenues, landscaped plots, and variety of grave markers—from 19th-century Art Nouveau to contemporary designs—create a park-like atmosphere. The cemetery is bordered by Alszeile and Grünbeckweg, near the Hernalser Friedhof, providing a significant green zone within Vienna’s urban landscape (Wikipedia).

Distinguished Burials and Memorials

The cemetery is the final resting place for several prominent Viennese figures and families, including:

Meinl Family: Coffee merchants who contributed to Vienna’s economic history.
Demel Family: Renowned imperial confectioners.
Anna Sacher: Noted hotelier.
Carl Braun Ritter von Fernwald: Eminent physician.

There are also 20 honorary graves (ehrenhalber gewidmete Gräber) for individuals who made significant contributions to Vienna or Austria (Wikipedia; Planet Vienna).

Additionally, the cemetery includes Jewish graves marked by Hebrew inscriptions and symbols, as well as memorials for Holocaust victims and war casualties, reflecting Vienna’s diverse history and tragedies.

Artistic and Architectural Heritage

Dornbacher Cemetery is notable for its artistic gravestones and funerary architecture. Visitors will find:

Art Nouveau (Jugendstil) Motifs: Flowing lines, floral patterns, and stylized lettering.
Neo-Gothic and Classical Elements: Chapels, mausoleums, and statues.
Mortuary Hall: Featuring a striking mosaic by Hermann Bauch.

These features underscore the intersection of art, remembrance, and cultural identity in Viennese cemeteries (Planet Vienna).

Visiting Information

Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Opening Hours: Generally open daily from 7:00 AM to sunset (approximately 5:00 PM in winter, up to 8:00 PM in summer). Confirm current hours on city websites, especially on holidays (Vienna Official Travel Guide).
Admission: Free—no tickets required.
Accessibility: Most main paths are flat and paved, but some areas may have uneven ground. Wheelchair users are advised to plan accordingly and may contact the administration for details.

Getting There

Public Transport: Accessible via tram line 43 (“Dornbacher Friedhof” stop) and bus lines 44A and 10A. Cycling routes are also available (Vienna Transport Information).
Maps: Available at the entrance or online (Vienna Tourist Guide).

Guided Tours and Special Events

Guided Tours: Occasionally organized by local cultural groups or historical societies, especially around All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days. These offer insights into the cemetery’s history, art, and notable personalities.
Special Events: Remembrance ceremonies and educational events are held periodically.

Visitor Etiquette and Tips

Maintain silence and respect funerals or mourners.
Modest dress is recommended.
Photography for personal use is permitted, but avoid photographing ceremonies or mourners without consent.
Flowers and candles can be purchased at nearby shops.
It is customary to greet other visitors with a polite “Guten Tag.”
Place small stones on Jewish graves as a sign of respect.

Nearby Attractions

Combine your visit with other historical or cultural sites:

Hernalser Friedhof: Adjacent cemetery with its own notable history.
Vienna Woods (Wienerwald): For nature walks.
Heurigen (Wine Taverns): In nearby Nussdorf or Grinzing.
Ottakringer Brewery and Historic Churches: In the Hernals district.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No, entry is free for all visitors.

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Open daily from 7:00 AM to sunset (varies by season).

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, occasionally, especially during commemorative periods. Check local listings or visitor centers.

Q: Is the cemetery wheelchair accessible?
A: Most main paths are accessible; some older sections may be uneven.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Personal photography is allowed, but please be discreet and respectful.

Conclusion

Dornbacher Cemetery offers a serene and insightful journey through Vienna’s layered history, social diversity, and artistic expression. With its free access, accessible location, and wealth of cultural heritage, it is an essential destination for those seeking to connect with Vienna’s authentic past away from the city’s busiest tourist attractions. For the most up-to-date information, consult official city resources and consider using the Audiala app for an enhanced, self-guided experience.

References and Further Reading

For more guides on Vienna’s historical sites, cemetery etiquette, and travel tips, explore our related articles and download the Audiala app for audio tours and interactive maps.