Dialog im Dunkeln

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to navigate the world without sight? Here at Dialog im Dunkeln, you’re about to find out. Dialog im Dunkeln, which translates to “Dialogue in the Dark,” isn’t your typical museum. It’s a sensory experience, a journey into a world without light. It first appeared in Austria as a series of temporary exhibitions back in 1993. Dialog im Dunkeln found its permanent Viennese home in 2009, nestled in the heart of the historic city center at the Schottenstift. This unique museum is operated by a dedicated team who took over after the last temporary Dialog im Dunkeln closed. Over 35,000 people each year, locals and tourists alike, venture into this world of darkness. They explore the intriguing exhibits and special events that Dialog im Dunkeln offers. One team member, Eva Kriechbaum, shared her experience, “I started working for Dialogue in the Dark eleven years ago as a student. I have been ‘condemned’ ever since.” She jokingly added, “Once you are running a social business, there is no way back, and I am thankful there is none for me. Doing my job made me a better person.” Inside Dialog im Dunkeln, blind and partially sighted guides lead you through everyday scenarios. Imagine navigating a bustling street, ordering a drink at a bar, or simply walking through a park, all in complete darkness. Your other senses heighten. The sounds of the city become more vibrant. The feel of different surfaces beneath your feet becomes a crucial navigational tool. Even the subtle shift in the air currents tells a story. It’s a truly unique way to understand the world from a different perspective and appreciate the power of human connection. Dialog im Dunkeln offers more than just guided tours. You can indulge in a “Dinner in the Dark” on Friday or Saturday evenings. Or, for a less intense introduction, try the “Breakfast Tour” on Saturday mornings. As you leave Dialog im Dunkeln and step back into the light, you carry a newfound appreciation for the world around you. You will have a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs of those who navigate it without sight.