Dive into contemporary creativity: Discover the vibrant world of Belvedere 21 in Vienna!
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Belvedere 21 is a contemporary art museum in the heart of Vienna, located at Arsenalstraße 1 in District 3. An integral part of the Belvedere, one of the city’s main museum complexes, Belvedere 21 stands out for its modern architecture and dynamic approach to contemporary art.
History and Architecture
The design of Belvedere 21 was conceived by Austrian architect Karl Schwanzer as the national pavilion for the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair. Characterized by its steel and glass structure, the pavilion received the Grand Prix d’Architecture for its innovative design.
Subsequently, the building was relocated to Vienna and adapted into a museum, opening in 1962 as the Museum of the 20th Century. In 2011, after being renovated by architect Adolf Krischanitz, it reopened as 21er Haus. It then assumed its current name, Belvedere 21, in 2018, with the intention of being positioned as a vibrant center for contemporary art.
Exhibitions and Programming
The museum offers an overview of Austrian art from the past 70 years, also presenting works by international artists. The exhibitions span various disciplines, including visual art, performance, cinema, and music. In addition to temporary exhibitions, Belvedere 21 hosts cultural events such as film screenings, readings, concerts, and lectures. The 21er Room is dedicated to exhibitions by contemporary Austrian artists, while the Blickle Cinema, the only well-preserved Viennese cinema dating from the 1950s, offers a diverse film program.
Services and Accessibility
The museum is easily accessible by public transport, including the U1 subway (Hauptbahnhof station), trams D, 18, and O (Quartier Belvedere station), and bus 69A (Arsenal stop). Nearby, there is also a bicycle parking area and an electric car charging station. The main entrance is barrier-free, equipped with elevators and accessible restrooms. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing break at the Lucy Bar, located inside the museum, which offers a cozy environment for enjoying drinks and snacks.
Opening Hours and Tickets
Belvedere 21 is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 11 AM to 6 PM, with extended evening hours on Thursdays until 9 PM. Entry is free for children and young people under 19 years old. Adults can purchase a reduced admission ticket with the Vienna City Card. Belvedere 21 is a landmark for contemporary art enthusiasts, offering a rich and diverse cultural experience in a context of significant historical and artistic value.
Booking Info
How to Book Your Tickets
Start your artistic adventure by visiting tiqets.com to grab your tickets. With just a few clicks, you can secure your entry to one of Vienna’s most exciting cultural hotspots. Say goodbye to long lines and hello to immersing yourself in stunning artworks!
Ticket Options
You’ll find a variety of ticket options to suit your needs—whether you’re looking for general admission or a guided tour for a deeper dive into the exhibits. A guided tour is a fantastic way to learn more about the artists and their works while enjoying the beautiful architecture of the museum.
When to Visit
Belvedere 21 is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 11 AM to 6 PM, with extended hours on Thursdays until 9 PM. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during the week or early in the day. This way, you can enjoy the exhibits at your own pace!
Location
Passes & Bundles
- BEST DEAL
INCLUDED:
- Belvedere Gardens
- Belvedere 21 – Contemporary Art Museum
- Lower Belvedere
- Gustav Klimt Collection
- Upper Belvedere Palace
USEFUL INFORMATION FOR YOUR VISIT
History
Belvedere 21 is a contemporary art museum located in Vienna, Austria, within the Belvedere Palace complex. Its history dates back to the 1950s when it was designed by Austrian architect Karl Schwanzer as the national pavilion for the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair. Characterized by a steel and glass structure, the pavilion received the Grand Prix d’Architecture for its innovative design.
After the exposition, the pavilion was dismantled and relocated to Vienna, where it was adapted to become a museum. Inaugurated in 1962 as the Museum of the 20th Century, Belvedere 21 has hosted a wide range of artworks, providing an in-depth look at the evolution of both Austrian and international art. In 2011, following a renovation by architect Adolf Krischanitz, the museum reopened under the name 21er Haus, with the intent to position itself as a dynamic center for contemporary art.
In 2018, the museum adopted its current name, Belvedere 21, with the aim of becoming a vibrant space for creativity and artistic innovation. The museum’s collection offers an overview of Austrian art from the past seventy years, also presenting works by international artists. The exhibitions span various disciplines, including visual art, performance, and cinema, attracting a diverse audience.
Belvedere 21 is not just a museum but also a vibrant cultural center that hosts events such as film screenings, concerts, and readings. The 21er Room is dedicated to exhibitions by contemporary Austrian artists, while the Blickle Cinema, a well-preserved cinema dating back to the 1950s, offers a varied film program.
Surrounded by beautiful Baroque gardens, Belvedere 21 is easily accessible by public transport and provides barrier-free access. With its unique architecture and rich cultural offerings, Belvedere 21 represents an unmissable landmark for contemporary art enthusiasts in Vienna.
Reviews
Jasper Hargrove, Toronto, Canada
Sofia Kim, Seoul, South Korea
Marco Leclerc, Paris, France
Emily Thompson, Melbourne, Australia
Gallery
Tips
Plan Your Visit on a Weekday
To enjoy a more relaxed experience, try to visit Belvedere 21 on a weekday! The weekends can get busy with locals and tourists alike. By going during the week, you’ll have more space to soak in the art and enjoy the beautiful architecture without feeling rushed.
Dress for Comfort
You’ll be doing quite a bit of walking, so wear comfortable shoes! The museum not only has incredible exhibits but also lovely outdoor spaces. Dress in layers, as the temperature can vary from the fresh air outside to the cozy warmth inside the galleries. Comfort is key for an art-filled day!
Grab Your Tickets Online
Save time and skip the line by purchasing your tickets in advance on tiqets.com. This way, you can waltz right in and start your adventure without the hassle of waiting. Plus, you can spend more time exploring and less time standing around!
Don’t Miss the Surrounding Gardens
After immersing yourself in contemporary art, take a stroll through the beautiful gardens surrounding Belvedere 21. They’re perfect for a leisurely walk or a quick photo op! The fresh air and stunning views of the palace make it a great way to unwind after your museum visit.
Check Out the Event Schedule
Belvedere 21 hosts a variety of cultural events, including film screenings, concerts, and talks. Before your visit, check their event schedule online to see if there’s something special happening during your time there. It’s a fantastic way to enhance your experience and connect with the local art scene!
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