Graben and the Plague Column (Pestsäule)
Graben and the Plague Column (Pestsäule) is one of the narrated stops on the self-guided Vienna audio walking tour in Gingerguide. Plan about ~30 min here. Press play at the spot for its two to three minute story, or ask the AI guide anything about it.
- Type monument
- Suggested visit ~30 min
- Vienna Vienna guide
About Graben and the Plague Column (Pestsäule)
A billowing Baroque monument on the Graben boulevard, raised in thanks after the plague of 1679. Emperor Leopold kneels at its base, and its quoted death toll is contested.
The Plague Column, or Pestsäule, stands on the Graben, one of Vienna's grandest boulevards. Emperor Leopold I vowed the monument in 1679 as he fled the Great Plague, promising a column of thanks if the epidemic ended. A provisional wooden version rose that year, and the definitive marble monument, a swirling pyramid of clouds, angels and saints, was inaugurated in 1693. It is dedicated to the Holy Trinity, and its imagery leans throughout on the number three.
Though often credited to Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach alone, the column was a collaborative Baroque work. The theatrical cloud design came largely from Lodovico Burnacini, with sculpture by several hands including Paul Strudel and Matthias Rauchmiller. Emperor Leopold kneels in prayer at the base. The Graben itself began as a defensive trench outside the Roman and medieval town wall, filled in and built over centuries ago.
Did you know? Though popularly credited to Fischer von Erlach alone, the column was a team effort. The swirling cloud-pyramid design came largely from the theatre designer Lodovico Burnacini, with sculptures carved by several different artists.
How long should you spend at Graben and the Plague Column (Pestsäule)?
Plan about ~30 min at Graben and the Plague Column (Pestsäule). That is enough to take it in and hear its narrated story; stay longer if it grabs you. The tour is self-guided, so there is no rush.
Is Graben and the Plague Column (Pestsäule) worth visiting?
Graben and the Plague Column (Pestsäule) is one of the 35 sights the Gingerguide team researched and narrated in Vienna, so it earns a place on a self-guided walk. Its story explains why it matters, and you can ask the AI guide anything the story leaves open.
Nearby stops in Vienna
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Hear the story of Graben and the Plague Column (Pestsäule)
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