Jewish Museum Vienna Exhibitions

Why See the Jewish Museum Vienna Exhibitions?

Immerse yourself in the captivating history of Jewish life in Vienna, spanning centuries from the Middle Ages to contemporary times, and gain a deeper understanding of its cultural significance.
Wander through the two distinct museum buildings, the elegant Palais Eskeles and the contemporary Museum Judenplatz, each offering a unique architectural setting for engaging with the exhibitions.
Delve into the profound impact of the Holocaust on the Jewish community in Vienna, as the exhibitions provide poignant insights into the experiences, resilience, and collective memory of those affected by this dark chapter.
Engage with a vibrant array of temporary and permanent exhibitions that dynamically explore Jewish heritage, fostering a constant dialogue and allowing for fresh perspectives on history, art, identity, and tradition.

Exhibitions at Jewish Museum Vienna

Our City! Jewish Vienna - Then to Now

Permanent Exhibition

"Our City!" exhibition on the ground floor chronicles the remarkable journey of Vienna's Jewish community from 1945 to the present, overcoming the challenges posed by unsupportive post-war Austrian politicians. It explores their resilient transformation from a devastated community to a modest yet vibrant presence through immigration from Eastern and Central Europe, followed by the former Soviet Union and Central Asia. It also highlights the growing optimism of Viennese Jews, who became Europe's third-largest Jewish community, while facing early anti-Semitic sentiments that intensified before the destructive actions of Austrian and German National Socialists in 1938.

Curator: Jewish Museum Vienna

Our Medieval City! The First Jewish Community in Vienna

Permanent Exhibition

Judenplatz was home to a thriving Jewish quarter and a grand synagogue from the 13th century. However, the community was tragically expelled and murdered in the 15th century. The area's historical significance resurfaced in the 1990s with the planned memorial to the Jewish Holocaust victims, highlighting Vienna's overlooked medieval past. The Museum Judenplatz's permanent exhibition utilizes archaeological research and modern technology to vividly depict the excavations of the destroyed synagogue and the former Jewish quarter, offering a fresh perspective on Vienna's first Jewish community.

Curators: Astrid Peterle, Adina Seeger, Domagoj Akrap, Janine Zettl

Exhibition design: PLANET architects; Fuhrer, Vienna

Guilt

Temporary Exhibition: 28/03/2023 - 29/10/2023

In the Judeo-Christian tradition, Adam and Eve's Fall introduced guilt into the world, symbolized by Cain's murder of Abel. While monotheistic religions emphasize the admission of guilt, societal notions of guilt and innocence are determined by criminal law. After the Holocaust, guilt became a sociopolitical issue, focusing on complicity and suppressed guilt. The exhibition explores guilt's diverse dimensions, including existential, metaphysical, moral, and political aspects, guiding visitors through historical artifacts and artwork to engage with this complex and multi-layered topic.

Curators: Hannes Sulzenbacher, Sabine Apostolo, Gabriele Kohlbauer-Fritz, Marcus Patka, Andrea Winklbauer

Exhibition design: Fuhrer, Wien

Happy Birthday Israel

Temporary Exhibition: 22/02/2023 - 02/07/2023

After World War II, survivors of the Holocaust faced the question of where to rebuild their lives. Returning to Eastern Europe was not an option, so around 300,000 displaced persons found temporary shelter in Austrian camps under American occupation. The establishment of Israel in 1948 offered hope to survivors, leading most to move there, while only a few remained in Austria. The exhibition displays photos from the DP camps, inviting visitors to contribute their own messages in celebration of Israel's 75th anniversary.

Curators: Barbara Staudinger, Sabine Apostolo, Marcus G. Patka,

Design: Stefan Fuhrer

Hans Kelsen and the Elegance of the Austrian Constitution

Temporary Exhibition: 11/10/2021 - 30/06/2023

In 2020, Austria commemorated the centenary of its constitution, lauded by Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen for its elegance and beauty. The exhibition highlights the pivotal role played by legal expert Hans Kelsen in crafting the Constitution. On the occasion of the constitution's centennial, the exhibition commemorates its architect, delving into Kelsen's life and accomplishments. Furthermore, it offers visitors an opportunity to examine the Constitution itself, uncovering surprising insights and realizations along the way.

Curator: Adina Seeger

Exhibition design: Capitale Wien

How To Book Tickets to the Jewish Museum Vienna Exhibitions?

To make the most of your visit to the Jewish Museum Vienna exhibitions, it is advisable to plan ahead and make preparations in advance. It is highly recommended to secure your tickets online to ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable experience, offering you the convenience of seamless access to the fascinating displays and collections within the museum.

Advance Booking: Ensure a hassle-free experience by reserving your tickets in advance, preventing any last-minute complications or the frustration of encountering sold-out days.
Convenience: Experience the convenience of purchasing Jewish Museum Vienna tickets from anywhere, whether it's the comfort of your home or while on the go, bidding farewell to long queues and eliminating any uncertainties.
Discounts: Stay alert for exclusive offers and discounts that can help you save money during your visit to the Jewish Museum Vienna exhibitions.

All Your Questions About Jewish Museum Vienna Exhibitions Answered

What are some of the most famous exhibitions in the Jewish Museum Vienna?

Some of the most famous exhibitions at the Jewish Museum Vienna include "Our City! Jewish Vienna Then to Now," which explores the history of Jewish life in Vienna, and "Shoah," which focuses on the Holocaust and its impact on the Jewish community.

What is part of the Jewish Museum Vienna's exhibitions?

The exhibitions at the Jewish Museum Vienna include a wide range of artifacts, documents, photographs, and multimedia installations that showcase various aspects of Jewish history, culture, art, and religion.

How long will it take to see the entire Jewish Museum Vienna exhibition?

You can spend around two to three hours to thoroughly experience the exhibitions.

How can I gain access to the Jewish Museum Vienna exhibits?

To gain access to the Jewish Museum Vienna exhibits, you can purchase tickets online which would eliminate the need for you to wait in long queues at the ticketing window of the museum.

Is photography allowed inside the exhibitions?

Yes, photography is allowed inside the exhibitions at the Jewish Museum Vienna for personal, non-commercial use.

Are the exhibitions at the Jewish Museum Vienna focused solely on Jewish history and culture?

Yes, the exhibitions at the Jewish Museum Vienna primarily focus on Jewish history, culture, traditions, and religious practices. They aim to educate visitors about the rich heritage and contributions of the Jewish community.

Is there an entrance fee for the exhibitions at the Jewish Museum Vienna?

Yes, there is an entrance fee to visit the exhibitions at the Jewish Museum Vienna which is included in the admission ticket starting at €12.

Are the exhibitions at the Jewish Museum Vienna accessible for individuals with disabilities?

Yes, the Jewish Museum Vienna provides wheelchair access, elevators, and accessible facilities to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges.

Are there any permanent exhibitions at the Jewish Museum Vienna?

Yes, the Jewish Museum Vienna has permanent exhibitions that form the foundation of its collection, called Our City! Jewish Vienna - Then to Now and Our Medieval City! The First Jewish Community in Vienna.

Do the exhibitions cover the Holocaust and its impact on the Jewish community?

Yes, the Jewish Museum Vienna features exhibitions that cover the Holocaust and its profound impact on the Jewish community.