Dear Ladies and Gentleman!
At The Museum of Military History/Military History Institute, (HGM/MHI) you will find the military history of Austria's Armed Forces and Navy, all under one roof. Military History and wars, technology and natural science, art and architecture, are all blended together in The Museum of Military History of Vienna, to create one unique whole. The building itself, was built between 1850 and 1856, as the center of the armoury, according to plans by Ludwig Foerster and Theophil Hansen, with which they anticipated the style of Vienna's Ring Street. The predominant styles are Moorish Byzantine and Neogothic.
Currently on display in this, one of the oldest buildings in the city, is the history of the Habsburg Monarchy, from the end of the 16th Century, to 1918 and the fate of Austria, after the falling of the empire, up to 1945. A time in which the Military and Armed Forces, played a considerably important historical role and thus, take front stage.
Since 2005, we have been presenting ourselves through large events, such as: “On Wheels and Chains”, “Effects and Gun Smoke” and “The Medieval Christmas Market”. Symposiums are also offered, to which distinguished historians are invited to speak on topics of greater historical significance.
As the leading museum of the Austrian Armed Forces, The Museum of Military History of Vienna documents, (with unique exhibits) the history of the Austrian military with weaponry, armaments, armored vehicles, planes, uniforms, paintings, flags, medals and badges of honor, battleships, historical documents and a multitude of photographs.
Through our membership in ICOM, (International Council of Museums) we have not only met the ethical guide lines for a museum, but also fulfilled the main function of a museum, which is the preservation and presentation of cultural and natural heritage. This, is the only way to achieve a greater understanding of foreign and of course, national culture.
We're looking forward to your visit and hope that you enjoy your time with us!
Yours
HR Dr. M. Christian Ortner
Direktor