Plague Column Pestsäule
A stunning Baroque column commemorating Vienna's deliverance from the plague, a symbol of resilience and art.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Plague Column Pestsäule
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning Baroque column commemorating Vienna's deliverance from the plague, a symbol of resilience and art.
"An impressive and beautifully carved column that commemorates the victims of the plague."
📸 Capture the Details
Look up! The top sculptures are stunning, especially when illuminated at night.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Graben
The column is on a main pedestrian street, perfect for combining with shopping.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 12,404 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Holy Trinity Sculpture
Top of the column
A breathtaking Baroque masterpiece symbolizing Vienna's deliverance from the plague.
Intricate Baroque Details
Column shaft and base
Marvel at the detailed carvings telling the story of the plague and the city's recovery.
Graben Street Location
Graben Street, Vienna
Experience this monument amidst luxury boutiques and bustling city life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Appreciating the Artistry
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Details
Look up! The top sculptures are stunning, especially when illuminated at night.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Graben
The column is on a main pedestrian street, perfect for combining with shopping.
❄️ Winter Charm
Snowfall adds a magical, enchanting layer to the monument.
💡 Nighttime Glow
Beautifully lit at night, offering a different perspective.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Details
Look up! The top sculptures are stunning, especially when illuminated at night.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Graben
The column is on a main pedestrian street, perfect for combining with shopping.
❄️ Winter Charm
Snowfall adds a magical, enchanting layer to the monument.
💡 Nighttime Glow
Beautifully lit at night, offering a different perspective.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Plague Column as an impressive and historically significant landmark in Vienna's city center. Its intricate Baroque artistry and symbolic representation of resilience are highlighted as major draws. While the busy Graben street can be crowded, the monument's beauty, especially when illuminated at night, makes it a memorable sight.
"It
is one of the most impressive landmarks in Vienna’s city center. Located on Graben Street, it combines history, religion, and art in a single monument. The detailed Baroque sculptures tell the story of Vienna’s recovery from the terrible plague of 1679. Both during the day and beautifully illuminated at night, it is a must-see attraction for anyone exploring the city."
Engin Tuncay
"A large Baroque monument located on the pedestrian street Graben in the heart of Vienna.
It was built as a memorial and thanksgiving for the end of a devastating plague epidemic that hit Vienna in 1679.
It stands as a symbol of hope, survival, and faith. It commemorates the city’s escape from devastating plague. It also reflects the mindset of the times: a blend of religion, politics, and memory, showing how people sought divine protection and public thanksgiving after crisis.
The design layers:
- mankind (at the base)
- angels (in the middle)
- the Holy Trinity (at the top)
represent a spiritual hierarchy and a link between earth and heaven.
The Column of Pest is an impressive historic statue. Beautifully detailed and a nice spot to admire while exploring the area."
J. Lepianda
"This monument was commissioned by Emperor Leopold I after the devastating plague epidemic of 1679. Construction began soon afterward, the monument was formally consecrated in 1693. Originally conceived in a Gothic style, the final design evolved into a dramatic High Baroque masterpiece rich in symbolism. At the top stands the Holy Trinity, representing divine deliverance. The central section depicts the realm of angels, who act as mediators between God and humanity. In the lower upper section, Emperor Leopold I is shown kneeling in prayer, imploring God for mercy on behalf of the city. The column as a whole symbolizes faith, repentance, and Vienna’s gratitude for survival."
Seokjin Ham
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Plague Column (Pestsäule) is centrally located on Graben Street, a major pedestrian thoroughfare in Vienna's first district. It's easily accessible on foot from Stephansplatz (St. Stephen's Cathedral) and is well-served by public transport. Tram lines 1, 2, D, and 71 stop nearby, as do U-Bahn lines U1 and U3 at Stephansplatz station.
Absolutely! The Pestsäule is impossible to miss as it stands prominently in the middle of Graben, one of Vienna's most famous and busiest shopping streets. You'll likely pass it multiple times while exploring the city center.
Driving directly to the Plague Column is not recommended as Graben is a pedestrian zone. However, there are several underground parking garages within walking distance, such as the Graben Parkgarage or the Freyung Parkgarage.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Plague Column is an outdoor monument located in a public square. You can view and admire it at any time without needing a ticket or admission fee.
As an outdoor monument, the Plague Column is accessible 24/7. However, its beauty is often best appreciated during daylight hours or when it's illuminated at night.
There is no entrance fee to see the Plague Column. It's a free public landmark for everyone to enjoy.
📸 📸 Photography
For fewer crowds and softer light, aim for early morning. For dramatic shots, photograph it at night when it's beautifully illuminated.
Try capturing the full height of the column from a distance on Graben, or get closer to focus on the intricate details of the sculptures. The surrounding architecture also provides a great backdrop.
🎫 🏛️ History & Significance
The Plague Column (Pestsäule) was erected in 1679 to commemorate Vienna's deliverance from the Great Plague. It's a symbol of gratitude, faith, and resilience.
The column was designed by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach and Leopold Ignaz von Beckh, with sculptures by Matthias Rauchmüller and Tobias Kracker.
Social
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