Ever wondered where Vienna’s workers sought respite in the late 19th century? It’s right here at the Bu00f6hmischer Prater. This small amusement park offers a glimpse into Vienna’s past.
The Bu00f6hmischer Prater sits on the edge of Vienna in Favoriten. Its history began in the second half of the 19th century. Some of its rides are over 100 years old. The name comes from the larger Wiener Prater.
Back then, workers had limited free time. They often spent it in inns. Excursions and walks were their only entertainment. The Laa Forest became a popular destination. It was a short walk from Favoriten.
Franz Bauer managed a canteen at the Laaer Wald brickworks. His small inn became a favorite for Sunday trips. The “Ziegelboehm” frequented it. These workers came from Bohemia and Moravia. In 1882, Bauer got permission to hold games. He added a swing and a merry-go-round.
Soon, other innkeepers opened excursion spots on the Laaer Berg. By 1884, there were 20 restaurants and many showmen. This formed the basis of the Bu00f6hmischer Prater. It quickly became the entertainment hub for people from Favoriten and Simmering.
Like its big brother, the Wiener Prater, the Bu00f6hmischer Prater has a Ferris wheel. Reinhardt operates this 21.5-meter-tall wheel. It features a cantilever design and 14 passenger cars.
However, the Bu00f6hmischer Prater faced hard times. On December 11, 1944, bombs nearly destroyed it during World War II. But it was rebuilt after the war.
Today, the Bu00f6hmischer Prater continues to charm visitors. You can find Europe’s oldest carousel here. Businessman Ernst Hrabalek bought “Frau Moros Carru00f2usel” in 2016. He created Park Hrabalek around it. The carousel dates back to 1890. It was first mentioned in 1897.
In this modest “Volksprater”, families still run the show. There is no charge to enter the Bu00f6hmischer Prater. You can sample Austrian food here. Zum Werkelmann offers Backhendl, Lu00e1ngos, and Stelze. There’s also wine, like Gru00fcner Veltliner.
Getting here is easy. Take tram 6 or 11 to Schrankenberggasse. You can also take bus 68A or 68B to Urselbrunnengasse. Another option is bus 15A to Max Mauermann Gasse.
As you explore the Bu00f6hmischer Prater, imagine the laughter and joy of past generations. This small amusement park is more than just rides. It is a piece of Viennese history. It offers affordable relaxation and entertainment for everyone.