Lainzer Tiergarten, Protected natural area in Vienna, Austria
Lainzer Tiergarten is a forested area in western Vienna in Austria, enclosed by a historic stone wall. Within its boundaries, deciduous woodlands alternate with open meadows, crossed by marked paths and occasional clearings.
The area served as an imperial hunting ground from the 13th century onward, protected by a wall to keep game animals from entering the city. After the monarchy ended, the area gradually opened to the public while maintaining its protected status.
The name recalls its past role as a game reserve, while today walkers follow wide forest paths through the landscape. Families often gather at viewpoints or use meadows near the Hermesvilla for breaks in the open air.
Entry gates open at seasonal times, with longer visiting hours in summer than in winter. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and bring enough water, as paths include some slopes.
The surrounding wall stretches roughly 22 kilometers (14 miles) and forms a continuous boundary that still encloses the grounds almost unchanged today. At several sections, old gates remain visible, through which only hunters and court staff once passed.
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