Vienna is one city that boasts of beautiful courtyards. But apart from those located in the famous spots in the city center, there’s one hidden gem where these lovely courtyards can be found.
Known as the Blutgassen District, the area features narrow and winding roads as well as houses in the medieval and baroque styles dating back to the 12th century. Some of the houses here are among the oldest in Vienna.
It’s not hard to find it as it is located next to St. Stephan’s Cathedral. It’s a small quarter bounded by Singerstrasse, Grunangergasse and Blutgasse. In fact, famous musician Mozart once lived around the corner.
It’s not certain where the name of this district was taken but the term “blut” actually means blood in German. Also, a legend has it that Knights Templars were slaughtered in the place when their order called Refugium in Vienna’s Fähnrichshof was abolished in 1312. There was bloodshed in the street then the reason why it was given such name.
There was also a time in the past when the narrow street was given the name Mud Lane.
Today, however, the fully restored Blutgassen District is home to shops, cafes and galleries. To see the open galleries that connect various apartments on the upper floors, you can look in the courtyards.
Another attraction in the area notablyl in the corner of Singerstrasse is the 18th century Neupauer-Breuner Palace. The palace features delicate windows and a huge entranceway. There’s also the Rottal Palace that boasts of classical wall motifs.
