The rotunda of the former psychiatric clinic harbors one of the city’s most fascinating and, at the same time, most bizarre secrets. Inside the Narrenturm, you’ll find the Pathological-Anatomical Collection of the Vienna Natural History Museum —a globally unique exhibition on the history of medicine, diseases, and human anatomy. Built in 1784 under Emperor Joseph II as the world’s first psychiatric clinic, the rotunda now serves as a setting for historical specimens, wax models (moulages), and medical instruments. Whether you’re a curious visitor, a science enthusiast, or a fan of the macabre: here you’ll get an up-close look at the darker side of anatomy.
A look behind the walls of the “Imperial Gupf”
The five-story rotunda is an architectural marvel even from the outside. But the true magic unfolds inside the Narrenturm. In the former patient cells, you’ll journey through centuries of medical history. The collection impressively demonstrates how doctors used to diagnose illnesses, which diseases shaped Vienna, and how the art of healing has evolved to this day.
Moulages and Masterpieces of Medicine
The extremely detailed moulages are particularly fascinating. These lifelike wax casts were once used to train medical professionals and depict clinical conditions with astonishing precision.You’ll walk past historical skeletons, medical devices, and preserved organs that bring history to life.
Between fascination and goosebumps in the Narrenturm
A visit to the Narrenturm leaves no one unmoved. The blend of grim history and scientific enlightenment creates a very special atmosphere. You’ll learn fascinating details about epidemics like the plague and tuberculosis and get a behind-the-scenes look at a time when medicine was still a true craft.
Directions by car: Take the Gürtel and turn onto Spitalgasse/Alser Straße; parking is available in the paid garage at the Old AKH (entrance on Spitalgasse).
Getting there by public transit: Take tram lines 33, 43, 44, or 5 to the “Brünnlbadgasse” stop, and you’ll be just a few steps from the entrance.
- Location: Spitalgasse 2, University of Vienna Campus (Courtyard 7), 1090 Vienna
- Date and time: Wednesday 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m., Thursday through Saturday 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
- Duration: Approx. 1.5 to 2 hours
- Admission: Adults €8 (reduced rate €6, free for youth under 19)
- Website: nhm-wien.ac.at/narrenturm
