Bezirksmuseum Innere Stadt - the Imperial Centre in a Museum

Join us for a journey through Vienna's rich history at the Bezirksmuseum Innere Stadt, undoubtedly one of the most fascinating district museums in the city. Housed in the historic palace that has served as the heart of the city's administration since 1316, this museum offers a glimpse into Vienna’s past, from its ancient origins to its imperial grandeur. Join us for a visit and discover the stories that shaped the Inner City!

Step into the heart of Vienna's rich history at the Inner City Museum, nestled within the iconic Old Town Hall, Altes Rathaus. Established in 1972 by a passionate group of local enthusiasts, this museum takes you on a journey through Vienna’s evolution — from its Roman roots to the Habsburg monarchy and beyond. Whether you're a history lover or a curious traveler, this museum offers a unique look at Vienna's cultural and imperial past.

The museum's exhibitions highlight the city's transformation, with a special focus on the Habsburg era and the vibrant cultural life of the 19th century monarchy. The experience begins in the entrance hall, where beautiful engravings and watercolours set the stage for your exploration.

The first exhibition room takes you to a journey through Vienna's early history, from Roman times to the revolutionary events of 1848. Marvel at the Tabula Peutingeriana, an illustrated itinerarium (ancient Roman road map) showing the layout of the cursus publicus, the Roman road network dating back to the 2nd century, and discover a sheet of music from around 1600 — one of the many intriguing artifacts that showcase Vienna’s cultural heritage. Don't miss the remarkable "Alte Pummerin" bell fragment, cast from Ottoman cannonballs during WWII, and fascinating Habsburg memorabilia, including portraits of Maria Theresa and Joseph II.

The second exhibition room brings Vienna’s Inner City to life from 1848 to the present, featuring rare treasures such as a fan once owned by Archduchess Valerie, a passport for Emperor Franz Joseph’s 1860 trip to Venice, and a ceremonial water cup used by the imperial couple in 1863. The preserved oak gates from the tragic 1881 Ringtheater fire offer a reminder of Vienna's past, while the draft of the declaration of war from 28 July 1914, which sparked World War I, is a powerful historical highlight.

For those seeking to dive deeper, the museum also boasts an extensive archive and library dedicated to Vienna's first district. Featuring historical maps, newspaper clippings, and even the Zabusch Collection — a comprehensive catalog of nearly every building in the Inner City — this treasure trove of knowledge is available to visitors during museum hours.

The museum is fully accessible, located at street level. There is no toilet in the museum itself, but there is an accessible loo round the corner. Take the lift to the first floor.

While there’s no museum café or shop, the city centre is just steps away, offering a wide array of cafés and restaurants where you can relax and reflect on your journey through Vienna's past. Take home some fascinating brochures about Vienna and its inner city, available at the reception desk.

Visit the Inner City Museum and uncover the layers of history that make Vienna one of Europe’s most captivating cities!