Secession Building
A Part of Vienna’s History and Beauty
The Secession Building (Wiener Secessionsgebäude) is a profound piece of Vienna's history and beauty. The history of the building stems back to 1897, when Gustav Klimt and several other artists founded the Secession, a breakaway art association of the conservative Künstlerhaus.
The city administration provided an area on Wienzeile near Naschmarkt. There, Joseph Maria Olbrich built a gorgeous, modern Art Nouveau style exhibition building, the Secession Building, which was completed in 1898. It is one of the best-known buildings in Vienna. You can see from far and wide the leafwork dome, known as the "Golden cabbage", which is the symbol of the Secession. Fascinatingly, at that point in history the architecture was highly controversial and caused a fuss among the population. There were quite a few protests! When you enter this incredible structure, you will see the artist association’s motto: To each time its art. To art its freedom.
For a real treat, visit the basement level where you can view Gustav Klimt’s "Beethoven Frieze". This monumental, 34 meter-long work of art was created by Klimt in 1902 as an interpretation of Beethoven’s 9th Symphony. In addition, there are around 20 changing exhibitions each year showcasing the phenomenal works of different contemporary artists.
Secession Building
