Portrait of Günther Bahr at Ober St. Veiter Friedhof

Ober Sankt Veiter Friedhof

Ober Sankt Veiter Friedhof: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance in Vienna

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: Vienna’s Heritage Reflected in Ober Sankt Veiter Friedhof

Ober Sankt Veiter Friedhof, located in the tranquil Hietzing district of Vienna, is a remarkable fusion of history, art, and community memory. Set against the scenic backdrop of the Vienna Woods, this cemetery not only serves as a resting place for generations of locals and notable personalities but also stands as a living museum of funerary architecture and Viennese cultural evolution. Its medieval origins, artistic monuments, and serene landscape draw visitors seeking a deeper connection to the city’s past.

This comprehensive guide provides detailed insights into the cemetery’s historical and cultural context, practical visitor information including opening hours and accessibility, notable burials, nearby attractions, and tips for a respectful and enriching visit. Whether you are a history enthusiast, art lover, or traveler in search of peaceful reflection, Ober Sankt Veiter Friedhof promises a meaningful experience within Vienna’s rich tapestry of heritage.

For the latest updates and planning resources, consult the Hietzing district website and Friedhöfe Wien.

Portrait of Josefine Kramer-Glöckner at Ober Sankt Veiter Friedhof

Portrait of Emmy Percy-Wüstenhagen at Ober Sankt Veiter Friedhof

Historical and Cultural Overview

Medieval Roots and Urban Expansion

First documented in 1195, Ober Sankt Veit’s name honors Saint Vitus, reflecting the medieval tradition of naming parishes and cemeteries after saints. The cemetery’s earliest origins trace back to the 13th century, evolving through Vienna’s turbulent history—including the Turkish sieges and the city’s dramatic 19th-century expansion. The area developed as a residential haven for Vienna’s middle class and creative figures during the Gründerzeit, embedding the cemetery in a vibrant social and cultural milieu (Hietzing.at).

Artistic and Architectural Heritage

Ober Sankt Veiter Friedhof is renowned for its diverse funerary art, with gravestones and family crypts reflecting styles from Historicism to Art Nouveau (Jugendstil) and early Modernism. Art Nouveau influences are evident in flowing lines, organic motifs, and symbolic imagery such as laurel wreaths and angels. Several monuments were crafted by prominent Viennese sculptors, using marble, bronze, and wrought iron to honor both the deceased and the creative spirit of their era.

The cemetery is also home to a small chapel, used for services and private prayer, and a series of memorials commemorating war victims and significant local events.

Notable Burials

Ober Sankt Veiter Friedhof is the final resting place for a range of important personalities, including:

Egon Schiele (1890–1918): A pioneering figure in Viennese Modernism, Schiele’s expressive art and untimely death during the Spanish flu have made his grave a pilgrimage site for art lovers. He is buried alongside his wife, Edith Schiele, in an honorary grave (Komoot, Hietzing.at).
Karl Geyling (1839–1904): Renowned landscape painter, celebrated for his depictions of the Austrian countryside.
Dr. August Schmied: Founder of the Wiener Männergesangsverein, a key figure in Vienna’s choral tradition.
Slatin Pascha (Rudolf Carl von Slatin): Explorer and colonial administrator, whose adventurous life is commemorated at his gravesite.
The Rohrbacher, Seidel, and other local families: Their collective graves reflect the district’s social fabric and heritage (Vienna Tourist Guide).

The cemetery also preserves Ehrengräber (honorary graves) maintained by the city in recognition of exceptional contributions to culture and society.

Community Role and Traditions

Beyond its function as a burial ground, Ober Sankt Veiter Friedhof plays a vital role in local traditions. All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day are marked by family gatherings, candle-lighting, and floral tributes, reinforcing the cemetery’s place in communal memory. Occasional guided tours and memorial events offer further opportunities for engagement and learning (Hietzing.at).

Practical Visitor Information

Location and Getting There

Address: Gemeindeberggasse 26, 1130 Wien, Hietzing district (benu.at)
Public Transport:
- U-Bahn: U4 to Ober St. Veit station, then a short walk.
- Bus: Lines 54A and 54B stop near the entrance.
- Tram: Lines 10 and 60 serve the Hietzing area.
Parking: Limited street parking; public transport is recommended.

Opening Hours

November 3 – February 28: 08:00 – 17:00
March 1 – March 31 & October 1 – November 2: 07:00 – 18:00
April 1 – September 30: 07:00 – 19:00
May 1 – August 31 (Thursdays): 07:00 – 20:00
Check the official district website for seasonal variations.

Entry and Tickets

Admission: Free of charge; donations are appreciated for maintenance.
Guided Tours: Offered seasonally through local organizations. Private tours may be arranged (Vienna Tourist Guide).

Accessibility

Physical Access: The cemetery is one of Vienna’s steepest, with well-maintained but sloping and sometimes uneven paths. Main entrances are step-free; benches and shaded areas are available for rest.
Public Transport Access: All nearby buses and trams are low-floor and accessible; U-Bahn stations have elevators (accessibleescapes.io).
Wheelchair Use: Main pathways are generally accessible, but assistance may be needed on steeper sections. Contact the cemetery office for advice.

Visitor Facilities

Restrooms: Not available onsite; nearest facilities are in local restaurants and public areas.
Water: Public drinking fountains are common in Vienna; carrying a water bottle is recommended.
Shelter: The cemetery offers natural shade but limited covered areas.

Enhancing Your Visit

Etiquette and Conduct

Maintain respectful silence; avoid disturbing mourners or services.
Photography is allowed but be discreet and avoid photographing private ceremonies.
Leave flowers or small tokens at graves as a sign of respect.
Dispose of waste properly to preserve the grounds.

Best Times to Visit

Spring and early autumn offer mild weather and beautiful foliage.
Early mornings and weekdays are generally quieter for reflection and photography.

Safety and Communication

Vienna is very safe, but remain mindful of personal belongings.
German is the primary language; English is widely understood.

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your visit by exploring:

Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens: One of Vienna’s top attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Lainzer Tiergarten: A large nature reserve ideal for hiking.
Local Cafés and Restaurants: Experience authentic Viennese cuisine in the Hietzing district.

Photographic Highlights

Hillside Views: Capture sweeping vistas and the unique terraced layout.
Historic Tombstones: Art Nouveau and traditional gravestones offer compelling subjects.
Landscaped Paths: Mature trees and seasonal blooms create a tranquil atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Hours vary by season: generally 08:00–17:00 in winter, up to 19:00 in summer, with Thursdays open later in peak season.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No, entry is free. Donations for upkeep are welcomed.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, seasonally offered; check local listings or the Hietzing district website for details.

Q: Is the cemetery wheelchair accessible?
A: Main paths are accessible, but the steep terrain may challenge some visitors; assistance is recommended.

Q: How do I get there by public transport?
A: Take U4 to Ober St. Veit, or bus lines 54A/54B. Trams 10 and 60 also serve the district.

Quick Reference Table: Notable Burials

Name	Significance	Grave Type	Dates
Egon Schiele	Painter, Viennese Modernism	Ehrengrab	1890–1918
Edith Schiele	Wife of Egon Schiele	Family Grave	1893–1918
Karl Geyling	Landscape Painter	Family Grave	1839–1904
Dr. August Schmied	Choral Founder	Family Grave	19th–20th c.
Slatin Pascha	Explorer, Administrator	Family Grave	1857–1932
Rohrbacher, Seidel	Local Notables	Family Graves	Various

Comprehensive grave list

Plan Your Visit

Before your visit, consult these resources for up-to-date information:

For interactive maps and virtual tours:
View Map and Virtual Tour of Ober Sankt Veiter Friedhof

Summary and Recommendations

Ober Sankt Veiter Friedhof stands as a multilayered testament to Vienna’s historical, artistic, and communal traditions. Its free admission, accessible location, and tranquil environment make it a rewarding destination for reflection and cultural exploration. Plan your visit in the milder months, use public transport for convenience, and consider joining a guided tour to unlock deeper narratives embedded in its stones and sculptures. For enhanced experiences and audio tours, download the Audiala app and follow cultural updates through official channels.