Anyone strolling through downtown Vienna will pass numerous impressive historic buildings. But behind the magnificent facades often lie stories that even many locals are unaware of. A particularly fascinating example of this is the Wertheim Palace on Schwarzenbergplatz, which has served a wide variety of purposes throughout its more than 150-year history.
The building once housed a private theater; later, an international fast-food chain even moved in. Today, events such as An Idiot’s Guide to Wine provide entertainment here, among other things. But how did the story of this extraordinary Viennese palace begin?
14 November 2026 17:30 + more dates
Palais Wertheim
From an Industrialist’s Mansion to a Stage for Theater and Entertainment
Between 1864 and 1868, the successful industrialist Franz Wertheim had the magnificent building constructed according to plans by the renowned architect Heinrich von Ferstel. Wertheim had made his fortune primarily through the manufacture of fireproof and burglar-proof safes.
But entertainment was not neglected at the palace either. At the end of the 19th century, the so-called Grey Theater was located here, run by court actress Valerie Grey. She was a member of the ensemble at the famous Burgtheater in Vienna. In 1910, the building was finally converted into a residential and office building.
Another surprising chapter unfolded in 1977: Austria’s very first McDonald’s restaurant opened on the ground floor. Since 2017, the palace has also been home to a modern event venue whose design combines historic elegance with striking concrete elements and contemporary design.
Where wine, comedy, and Viennese history come together today
Today, the Palais Wertheim offers a versatile setting for special events. At “An Idiot’s Guide to Wine,” for example, you can experience an entertaining combination of wine tasting and stand-up comedy. While you sample five selected wines from around the world, a comedian guides you through the world of wine with plenty of humor. It’s a special opportunity to get to know this historic palace from a completely different perspective!
