Zum weißen Schwan

Journey back to 1848. Imagine the bustling streets of Vienna. Right here, at Kärntner Straße 24, the Zum weißen Schwan restaurant first opened its doors. It quickly became a beloved fixture in the city, known for its traditional Viennese cuisine. Zum weißen Schwan holds a special place in culinary history. It was the first restaurant of the famed Franz Sacher. Yes, the very same Sacher who created the iconic Sachertorte. The connection to Sacher remains strong to this day. Guests from the Hotel Sacher frequently dine at Zum weißen Schwan. They savor the legendary original Sachertorte, a treasured item on the dessert menu. But the story of Zum weißen Schwan goes even further back. Legend whispers that the building’s name, “The White Swan,” originates from a tale of chivalry and romance. The minnesinger Ulrich von Liechtenstein, always clad in white velvet, supposedly stayed here during his adventurous knightly travels. One story recounts his grand arrival in Vienna in 1227. Disguised as Venus, he was met by a magnificent procession. While Ulrich’s writings mention his entry into Vienna, the exact location of his lodging remains a mystery. The Zum weißen Schwan is a strong contender. Records reveal that the building housed four butcher shops before it became a renowned inn in 1700. In 1744, a chance encounter at Zum weißen Schwan changed the course of military history. Count Loudon met Baron von Trenck, a Pandur colonel, who persuaded him to join the Austrian army. After an audience with Maria Theresa, Loudon was commissioned as a captain. Over the centuries, Zum weißen Schwan witnessed numerous changes of ownership and even a few reconstructions. The original two-story building with its charming rondelles was demolished in 1846 and rebuilt. Later, in 1897, it was replaced by the residential building you see today. Zum weißen Schwan has hosted its share of prominent guests, including Madame de Stael in 1809 and Countess Napoleona Camerata in 1830. The building’s rich history intertwines with the vibrant tapestry of Vienna itself. From butcher shops to a renowned inn, Zum weißen Schwan’s story reflects the city’s ever-evolving spirit.