Vienna - the architecture edition

Oh Vienna...  for many years I dreamed of visiting this architecturally stunning city, somewhat unscathed by the horrors of WWII.  Allied air raids and artillery combat between the Wehrmacht and the Red Army immobilized tram services, water and power, as well as destroyed or damaged thousands of public and private buildings.  Vienna was bombed fifty-two times during WWII and 20% of the entire city lay in ruin.

Walking in the rain down one of the many pedestrian walking/shopping areas.

The Wagner Apartments - Secession style architecture designed by Otto Wagner (1841-1918).

The Karlsplatz U-Bahn - station also designed by Wagner.

More beautiful architecture...  not sure of the architect.

The Secession Building - built in 1897 by Joseph Maria Olbrich for exhibitions of the Secession artists.  Klimt was the first president of the Secession Artist movement that began in 1897.

Building across from the Secession Building.

University of Technology.

Hundertwasser Haus - Expressionist landmark designed by the Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, with architect Joseph Krawina as a joint collaborator.  This is the second Hundertwasser building I have seen in my European travels this year.  The first was in Switzerland on a drive-by.

Striking sculptures along the way.

St. Charles's Church.

More art...

Random fact:  In a 2005 study of 127 world cities, the Economist Intelligence Unit rated Vienna first for "quality of life", tied with Vancouver, Canada.  How about that!!!  :D

Devi