This museum opened in 2018 as the national museum of contemporary history. Its permanent exhibition focuses on the period from 1918, following the collapse of the Habsburg Empire, through to the present day. The museum is often regarded as one of Vienna’s most candid historical spaces, as it does not limit itself to narratives of victimhood. Instead, it also addresses Austria’s roles in perpetration, collaboration, and societal complicity, especially in the context of the 20th century. The exhibitions rely heavily on symbols, everyday objects, and media, rather than monumental artifacts, to convey how history was lived and experienced. Rather than offering fixed conclusions, the displays are question-driven, encouraging visitors to reflect on what should be confronted, remembered, and debated in Austrian society today. This approach can be demanding, and for foreign visitors, the museum may feel slightly less accessible, as much of the nuance depends on local historical context. ※ Included in the Bundesmuseen Card.
Nice museum, a little small, but well done. Also comes with entrance to the Ephesus museum. It wasn’t crowded at all. The woman selling tickets was really rude and impatient though. She took her time to explain things and give an audio guide (which was included in the price) to Austrian visitors. But she was incredibly rude to another visitor who had limited English and wanted to ask basic questions. She also refused to give me an audio guide and just pointed to a sign with a QR code. When people asked about buying tickets she almost seemed to be convincing them not to visit. It is confusing because there are a few museums in the same location, but it’s not very clear at the entrance. More signage at the entrance is needed, not to mention a ticket salesperson who isn’t so unpleasant. The man working upstairs at the info desk was very friendly and helpful. It was worth visiting, and I liked the booth they had set up next to the balcony which asked what should be done with it due to its history. Lots of interactive displays and it’s in a beautiful building.
Lovely museum of modern history (1918 forwards) with lots of media. The absolute highlight was the road sign of the village now called Fukking. When it used to be called as the sign says, it was a mecca for overland travelers and everyone wanted to make a selfie with it. They renamed it some 4 years ago and I didn't have a chance to make the selfie - but I made one here. It felt like meeting an old friend.
We came here as the entry was free admission on national Austrian day, we waited in line about 40min. The museum or at least the areas we were able to see weren't interesting.. They only had some Roman statues and stones which coming from Italy, we see every day and every museum so they didn't have much. Some things about the world war and some papyrus from Arab countries which again if Arab you see them every day in Arab countries. Beside the war they don't actually have any culture as their culture is based on the Romans and Greek.
Really not your everyday classic history museum. Very interactive and visual, with a lot of food for thought and good bilingual captions. Note the audio guide (free service) is only available in German, yet the captions and text available are more than enough. I am not sure it would be interesting for young kids and toddlers, but they offer a quizz and a rally for the older ones. The current temporary exhibition is thrilling and the adjacent Ephos Museum is fascinating. Totally recommend.