"Ach, du lieber Augustin" is an Austrian folk song. Do you remember the story of the Schubert monument in the city park? It is believed that this song originated in Vienna during the plague of 1678–1679. The authorship is attributed to a certain Augustin - a wandering singer and drinker. The story goes that Augustin, heavily intoxicated, stumbled into a pit where the bodies of those who died from the plague were thrown. He fell asleep there, and in the morning, when he woke up and climbed out of the pit, he had to prove that he was alive and not a resurrected zombie. To do this, he started singing his famous songs, and his friends and, apparently, some female companions rejoiced and exclaimed: "Oh, my dear Augustin." By the way, according to church records, a certain Augustin is mentioned, who died on March 11, 1685, from alcohol poisoning at the age of 35.
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!
