Palais Ferstel, Renaissance heritage building in Herrengasse, Vienna, Austria
Palais Ferstel is a Renaissance building in central Vienna that spans multiple streets, connecting Herrengasse with Strauchgasse. It features a wide passage leading to Freyung square with multiple levels containing shops, cafes, and spacious halls.
Built in 1860 by architect Heinrich von Ferstel, the building originally housed the Austrian National Bank and the stock exchange. In 1878 it became headquarters for the Austro-Hungarian Bank, marking its importance as Vienna's financial center.
The vaulted passage houses shops and cafes, including the Cafe Central, which became a gathering place for writers and intellectuals. Visitors notice how the mix of retail and historic spaces keeps the place active and social.
The building is freely accessible and you can visit the passage and shops without advance notice. For events or special exhibitions, check ahead as these take place at specific times.
The passage entrance displays the inscription 'Bis auf Widerruf gestatteter Durchgang', indicating public access rights since the 19th century. This historic sign reminds visitors that the passage was originally designed as a public walkway with indefinite permission.
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