Ephesos-Museum

This museum is a specialized museum dedicated to artifacts from the ancient city of Ephesos. Located in present-day western Turkey, Ephesos was originally a Greek city and later became one of the most important urban centers of the Roman Empire. In the late 19th century, the Austro-Hungarian Empire, through agreements with the Ottoman Empire, carried out extensive archaeological excavations at Ephesos. As a result, a significant number of discoveries were transported to Vienna, forming the core of this museum’s collection. Among the most important exhibits are sculptural fragments from the Temple of Artemis—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—and the monumental reliefs of the Parthian Monument, which depict imperial power and Roman ceremonial life. ※ Included in the Bundesmuseen Card.

Definitely for completists only. There are 2 fabulous bronzes here. The boy with the goose is being "conserved" so I didn't get to see that one. I combined this museum with the Hofjagd armory and the papyrus museum. If you wanted, you could add on the Sisi museum, state apartments, and the Schatzkammer for a full day. They are all in the same complex. The frieze was in quite rough shape. If you've never seen architectural sculpture you may like it. I wouldn't go out of my way to see this display, unfortunately, nor would I spring for the approx. 10€ ticket- although I know they need to keep the lights on.

Ephesus Museum Vienna The Ephesus Museum Vienna is located in Vienna, the capital of Austria, as a department of the Kunsthistorisches Museum (Vienna Museum of Art History) and exhibits ancient artifacts brought from the ancient city of Ephesus in Turkey. Abdul Hamid II's decision to allow the Ephesus artifacts to be transported to Vienna can be explained by the political and economic conditions of the time. The desire to strengthen diplomatic relations, secure economic benefits, and engage in cultural cooperation with Europe influenced this decision. However, these permissions reflect the Ottoman Empire's weak awareness of preserving its cultural heritage and Europe's colonialist approach to archaeological artifacts. With the establishment of the Republic of Turkey, the export of such artifacts was prohibited after 1923, and stricter policies were adopted for the protection of cultural heritage. The Ephesus Museum Vienna officially opened to the public in 1978 in the Neue Burg section of the Kunsthistorisches Museum (Vienna Museum of Art History) in the Hofburg Palace. However, the artifacts brought from Ephesus were transported to Austria between 1896 and 1906 and stored in warehouses or displayed in temporary exhibitions for extended periods. In 1978, a specially designed exhibition space was created for these artifacts, and the museum took its current form.

What a joy to experience this small but outstanding collection all by myself. Housed in one of the Hofburg’s gigantic corridors, this is a rare treat for the ancient art enthusiast. The cool and quiet setting allows for contemplation and introspection. What a rare opportunity to enjoy art as it is supposed to be experienced.

I'm giving five stars for the beauty of the artifacts. However, I do not remember fondly the Ottoman Sultan who allowed these pieces to be taken from our lands and kept in storage for nearly a century. These artifacts deserve to be in their rightful lands, not in palaces...