DK Travel : Vienna

Splendid edifices, magnificent palaces and imposing churches spanning the centuries all make Vienna a wonderful city to visit, oozing both charm and atmosphere. Although its imperial grandeur can still be felt, this city of music has more to offer than just its glorious past; contemporary architecture, a brimming cultural scene and a vibrant nightlife add to its appeal. No matter how many times you return, you will always discover something new.

Kammeroper

The Kammeroper, founded in 1954, is dedicated to promoting young singers. The four main productions a year include classic and Baroque operas, musicals and operettas. The Kammeroper moves to the Schloss Schönbrunn theatre in July and August.
Kammerspiele

The 515-seat theatre was built in 1910 and was first known as the Residenztheater. It is closely connected to the Theater in der Josefstadt and actors usually perform in different plays in both venues. The Kammerspiele’s programme is made up entirely of comedies.
Kapuzinergruft

The crypt beneath the Kapuzinerkirche (Capuchin church) was established by Empress Anna in 1618 and served as the Habsburgs’ burial place for more than 350 years. Among the 146 bodies resting in elaborately decorated sarcophagi or simple coffins are 12 emperors and 19 empresses. However, their hearts were buried separately in silver containers in the crypt of the Augustin church (see p63) and their intestines in copper urns in the catacombs of the Stephansdom.
Kapuzinerkirche

Built in 1618, the simple design of this church is in line with the Capuchin order’s doctrine. Emperor Matthias (1557– 1619) established a crypt for the Habsburgs here (see p62).
Karl I

As the last Habsburg monarch (1916–18) Karl I was forced to leave the country in exile in 1918.
Karl VI

Karl VI (1711–40) changed the rules of succession, allowing females to ascend the throne.
Karlskirche

This Baroque masterpiece is one of Vienna’s most impressive churches, with its beautiful carved columns and vast green dome (see pp26–7).
Karlskirche

This stunning church combines Oriental and Baroque flourishes (see pp26–7).
Karlskirche

This impressive Baroque church, built in the early 18th century, has two distinguished columns on either side and a large dome overhead. It is a magnificent sight which dominates Karlsplatz (see pp26–7).
Karmelitermarkt

A daily market takes place on the square encircled by these four streets. It’s a colourful, multicultural spot where you can buy vegetables, fruit, groceries and Turkish food, observe traditional Austrian butchers selling fresh poultry, red meat and horse meat, and investigate kosher butchers and grocery shops. However the market is most interesting at weekends, when farmers and vendors come from outside Vienna to set up their tables and sell their produce.