Riesenrad in Vienna

The Wiener Riesenrad – World Famous Ferris Wheel

The beautiful city of Vienna is a magnet for lovers of music, the arts and amazing architecture. There is one attraction that dominates a spacious part of the city’s skyline. This is the Wiener Riesenrad, the world famous ferris wheel located at the entrance to the Prater. The history of the Wiener Riesenrad creates as much of the wonder of this particular feature of Wien as the immense size of the structure. At night, the Wiener Riesenrad fairly lights the entire city with its glowing illumination.

The History Of The Riesenrad

The Austrian nature, though reserved, also leans toward a unique kind of gayety and love of festivity. In Vienna, there is always a festive atmosphere to be found. Perhaps, this is why the Wiener Riesenrad became the world’s first ferris wheel. It lies in the Viennese district of Leopoldstadt and claims title to the most popular amusement in the Prater. To celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Emperor Franz Josef in 1897, the Viennese erected the Riesenrad as a tribute. At the time of its premier in Vienna, it became the largest ferris wheel in the world, standing at more than 200 feet high with 30 gondolas for patrons of the Prater to enjoy.

The Destruction of The Riesenrad

Sadly, as a result of damage incurred during World War II, the Wiener Riesenrad was slated for demolition. The beloved structure was to experience an odd twist in its history. Due to lack of funding for the demolition, the mighty Wiener Riesenrad would surmount its fated destruction. When the city of Vienna began restoration of the Riesenrad, the number of gondolas was reduced from 30 to 15 and an entirely new mode of operation was upgraded with more durable steel materials to assure safety.

The Glorious Wiener Riesenrad

On a bright, sun-filled Vienna day, tourists are enamored by the sight of the Wiener Riesenrad as much for its photographic assets as for the unusual history. It may be said that the gift to Emperor Franz Josef remains one of Vienna’s most outstanding gifts to Austria and tourists of the world. The Wiener Riesenrad is a sight that has to be seen in daylight and at night in order to fully appreciate the wonder of it. Viewing Vienna from the top of the Wiener Riesenrad gondola is a unique experience tourists should not miss.