Wiener Neustadt: Babenberg Town, Cathedral and Military Academy
A town founded with the ransom for Richard the Lionheart
HighlightsNiederösterreich- Duration
- 1.5 hours
- Languages
- German, English
This private walking tour of Wiener Neustadt tells the story of a planned medieval town founded with ransom money paid for Richard the Lionheart. Its castle houses the oldest military academy in the world still in operation.
Duke Leopold V of the Babenberg dynasty founded Wiener Neustadt around 1194 as a fortified border town. Part of the ransom for the English king Richard the Lionheart, who had been held captive at Dürnstein, paid for it. The regular street grid of the old town is still clear today.
In the 15th century the town was the residence of Emperor Frederick III. His son Maximilian I was born here in 1459 and is buried in St. George's Church in the castle. In 1751 Maria Theresa founded the Theresian Military Academy in the castle, which still trains officers today.
Your guide leads you from the main square to the Romanesque cathedral, the castle and remains of the town wall, and tells of emperors, fires and rebuilding after World War II.
Highlights
- Founded with the ransom for Richard the Lionheart
- The Romanesque cathedral
- Birthplace of Emperor Maximilian I
- The Theresian Military Academy
- A planned town grid and town walls
The route
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1Main square
Start in the center of the planned town.
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2Cathedral
Romanesque and Gothic parish church.
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3Town wall
Fortification remains and the Reckturm tower.
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4Castle
Home of the Military Academy.
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5St. George's Church
Finish at the tomb of Maximilian I.
Who this tour is for
For history lovers and travelers heading between Vienna and the south.
Frequently asked questions
Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are never included in the tour price. When you book, we are happy to tell you which admissions apply to your group.
How is the price calculated?
This is a private tour for your group only. The price is per group, not per person, which makes it great value for families and friends traveling together.
Can we visit the Military Academy?
The academy is an active military site, so visits are limited and need advance registration. We are happy to check the options for you.
