If you’re out and about on the Wienerberg, you simply can’t miss it. The Favoriten Water Tower has towered imposingly over the 10th district for over a century. But what’s the story behind this brick giant, why was it in service for such a short time, and what awaits you inside today? Here you’ll learn all about its fascinating history, its remarkable architecture, and how you can explore this landmark up close on exclusive guided tours.
A Technical Masterpiece of Historicism
Built from 1898 to 1899 under City Planning Director Franz Borkau, the tower was intended to supply the higher-elevation areas of the 10th and 12th districts with fresh spring water from Vienna’s First High-Source Water Pipeline. With a total height of 67 meters, it is one of the most significant structures of industrial historicism in Vienna. The striking facade of red and yellow clinker bricks, along with the eye-catching, colorful tiled roof, make it an architectural highlight that resembles a fairy-tale castle more than a functional building.
A Short Heyday and Early Retirement
However, the giant didn’t remain in service for long. As early as 1910, the tower lost its original function as a drinking water supply, since the Second Vienna High-Source Water Pipeline had built up sufficient water pressure. After only eleven years of operation, it was decommissioned as a water tower, but has been preserved to this day as a landmark and technical monument.
Cultural Hub, Event Venue, and Adventure Park in the Water Tower
Today, the restored water tower serves as a versatile exhibition and event space for art projects and cultural events organized by the City of Vienna. The tower is also surrounded by a spacious park featuring a popular water playground. On regular guided tours, you can climb the imposing spiral ramp inside and admire the impressive roof structure up close. On September 29 at 8:00 p.m., you’ll have the opportunity to experience the tower on a guided tour.
The best way to reach the water tower by car is via Triester Straße (B17) or Wienerbergstraße, where parking is available on the surrounding streets. By public transit, take tram line 1 to the “Windtenstraße” stop or bus lines 7A/15A to “Triester Straße/Angergasse,” and you’ll arrive right in front of the site.
- Location: Favoriten Water Tower, Windtenstraße 3, 1100 Vienna
- Date and Time: Guided tour on September 29, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. (additional dates available upon registration)
- Duration: approx. 1 hour
- Cost: Free admission (registration required)
- Website: wien.gv.at/umwelt/wasserwerk/wasserturm
