On a hillside in Hernals, Vienna, lies a place of quiet contemplation, the Dornbacher Friedhof. The Dornbacher Friedhof isn’t just a sea of tombstones. It’s a tapestry of Vienna’s history, woven with threads of art, music, and political intrigue. Established in 1883, the Dornbacher Friedhof quickly became the final resting place for many notable Viennese.
As you wander through its tranquil paths, you’ll encounter names etched in stone that resonate with the echoes of a bygone era. Gaze upon the resting place of Otto Benndorf, the renowned archaeologist, whose work unveiled the splendors of ancient Ephesus. Nearby lies the grave of Paul von Schönthan, the celebrated playwright, whose comedic masterpiece, “Raub der Sabinerinnen,” still tickles audiences today.
But the Dornbacher Friedhof holds more than just famous names. It cradles the memories of individuals who contributed to the soul of Vienna. The confectioner Christoph Demel, whose delectable pastries still grace Viennese cafes, rests here. We also find the grave of Anton Strohmayer, a Schrammel musician, whose melodies once filled the city’s Heurigen with cheer. Even amidst the tranquility, a touch of darkness lingers. The graves of Otto Planetta and Franz Holzweber, infamous for their roles in the 1934 July Putsch, once stood here. Destroyed by bombs in 1945, their absence serves as a stark reminder of Austria’s turbulent past.
The Dornbacher Friedhof is a poignant reminder of the lives that shaped Vienna. It’s a place where history and nature intertwine in quiet harmony, inviting reflection and remembrance.