Leopold and Joseph. We are already familiar with these names. Remember the fountain on the Roman Forum? Near the anchor-shaped clock? Leopold I had a deep affection for his son Joseph. It wasn't just the vow he made before Joseph went to war; it was a true example. In the second half of the 17th century, during his prosperous reign, Leopold embarked on the reorganization of Graben Street in Vienna. The city had already recovered from the dreadful plague and the first Turkish siege, with no knowledge of the impending second one. Under his orders, the reorganization of the old fountains coincided with the construction of the plague column. Fountains on both sides of it were rebuilt. The first one was Joseph's Fountain, which stands before us, filled with motifs from the biblical figure of Joseph. Joseph, the son of Jacob, and Joseph, the betrothed of the Virgin Mary. Leopold's life and deeds were filled with so much "Joseph," making it difficult to imagine what his own brother Karl, the youngest son of Leopold, must have felt. He was, after all, the last direct heir of the Habsburgs in the male line.
A leisurely stroll through the historic part of the city unfolds a tapestry of enchanting landmarks. The city park, adorned with the melodies of Strauss and Schubert, leads to the venerable city gates named after Luger and Mozart. The narrative of "Ah, My Sweet Augustine" echoes through time, while the oldest church in the city stands as a testament to bygone eras. The tales of Theodor Herzl, the anchor clocks, the Jewish quarter, the square where it all began, the longest narrow alley, the Estergazi restaurant, and Andersen's house weave together seamlessly.
Wander down Graben Street, passing by the plague column and fountains, where the stories of homes, people, words, legends, and traditions blend harmoniously. Amidst it all, relish the charm of restaurants, cafes, wines, and coziness that add an extra layer of warmth to this rich tapestry of history and culture.
Don't be afraid to get lost in new places!
