Overview:

Stephansplatz is a busy square in Vienna’s central framework surrounded by beautiful baroque buildings, shops, and eateries. It is best known for being the home of the famous St. Stephen’s Cathedral and its many towers. The square’s weekly market draws large crowds of both locals and tourists who come to browse the fresh produce stalls, regional specialties, and artisan goods. The square is also popular with tourists for its frequent events and close proximity to other major Vienna attractions, such as St. Peter’s Church, City Hall, and the National Library. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Austria
Prominent Features:

- Stephansplatz is a public square in the centre of Vienna, Austria, that is located between Stephansdom and Graben. - It is named for St. Stephen, the former patron saint of the city, and is the site of an impressive Gothic cathedral, Stephansdom. - The square is filled with imposing historical buildings and stunning modern architecture. It also hosts a popular weekly outdoor market, which features fresh produce, clothing, and souvenirs. - Stephansplatz is home to luxury shops, cafés, restaurants, and hotels, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. - Visitors to Stephansplatz can also enjoy the many performers on the square, including street musicians, fire eaters, mimes, and jugglers. - Every year on December 31st, the square is the site of the famous “Symphony of Lights and Bells”, a spectacular performance of classical music accompanied by fireworks, that celebrates the New Year. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Austria.

History:

Stephansplatz (English: St. Stephen's Square) is a public square in the geographic center of Vienna, Austria. It is named after the Stephansdom, Vienna's largest church, located here. Originally a marketplace, Stephansplatz has been a bustling center of Vienna for centuries. The square was first mentioned in 1230, when it was known as Platea Secunda, or Second Square. At the time, it was located just to the north of the Vienna city walls. Soon it became the site of a Thursday livestock market, and started to grow as a popular meeting place. In the 14th century, it was known as "Austria's most famous square" and was home to markets and public celebrations. In the 16th century, Emperor Maximilian I decided to change the square's name to Stephansplatz in honor of St. Stephen's Cathedral, which was being built at the time. The cathedral was completed in 1433, and Stephansplatz soon became the city's most important venue for festivals and parades. In the 18th century, the square was remodeled to accommodate changing tastes in architecture. During this period, some of the city's most notorious criminals were put on display there. The early 19th century saw the square become a hub of Restoration Vienna culture, with art galleries and cafes being opened here. The square remains a popular meeting place to this day. It is home to numerous cafes, bars, and clubs, in addition to its famous cathedral. It is also a major tourist attraction, with its many shops and its beautiful architecture. Visit one of the famous monuments of Austria with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Stephansplatz (St. Stephen's Square) is the most famous square in Vienna, Austria. It is home to the central landmark of the city, St. Stephen's Cathedral, and is the traditional heart of Vienna. 2. The square itself is a busy mix of ancient and modern. It was originally created in 1220 and has since been the hub of many historic events. On the south side of Stephansplatz lies the oldest shopping mall in Vienna, the restored Kristallmetzgasse. 3. On the east side, Stephansplatz's oldest building is the Steffl Tower (named after St. Stephen), the famous tall tower which dominates the skyline - built in 1511, it is the second highest church tower in Vienna. 4. In the 16th century, Emperor Karl V and his court used to take a stroll between Stephansplatz and Schottentor (the city gate located opposite the Steffl Tower) every evening, leading to the court being referred to as the “evening walkers”. 5. The city's former imperial palace, the Hofburg, starts at the north side of Stephansplatz. It is now a museum housing centuries of priceless artefacts and serves as a symbol of Vienna's imperial past. 6. During the Imperial period, the archway to the former Royal court was guarded by the famous Vienna Boys Choir, who to this day sing each Sunday Mass in St. Stephen's Cathedral. 7. Stephansplatz is also traditionally the main meeting place for Viennese citizens. Every year on December 31st, the square hosts New Year's Eve celebrations and the iconic ice rink is set up in the centre. 8. It is also home to one of Vienna's liveliest Christmas markets, and from mid-November to Christmas Eve the area is filled with stands selling traditional handicrafts and goodies. One of the historical monuments of Austria, it tells the story of a bygone era