Michaelerplatz (Saint Michael's Square), Vienna

Saint Michael's Square (Michaelerplatz) is a baroque-style, star-shaped square in the heart of Vienna that functions as the point of intersection of several streets and the northeast entry point to the Hofburg Palace.

The area's history traces back to the Roman legionary camp of Vindobona. A viewing spot for an excavation of this encampment is found at the center of the square.

As you enter, you can't help noticing the impressive Neo-Baroque Michael’s Gate (Michaelertor) leading through Saint Michael's Wing (Michaelertrakt) to the Hofburg’s inner courtyard. On both sides of the doorway are 19th-century fountains, created by Rudolf Weyer.

Opposite Michael’s Gate – on its eastern side – is the grand church of Saint Michael (Michaelerkirche), which lends its name to the square itself. The earliest parts of it date back to 1221, yet its present form originated in 1792.

The porch is topped by Baroque sculptures depicting the Fall of the Angels. Inside are 14th-century Renaissance frescoes, plus a carved, gilded organ – the largest in Vienna – once played by Joseph Haydn. Off the north choir is the crypt entrance. In the 17th and 18th centuries, local parishioners were often buried beneath the church; some of their well-preserved bodies, clothed in burial finery, can still be viewed in open coffins.

In the 20th century, the area saw significant developments such as the construction of Looshaus, one of the most modern buildings in Vienna at the time, designed by Adolf Loos. Although now famous, back in the day, it was considered an eyesore for its rather simple, unadorned design. So much so, in fact, that when completed in 1912, the building caused such an outrage on the part of Emperor Franz Joseph that he vowed never to use Michael’s Gate ever again. The cause of his indignation was the building’s starkly functional upper facade contrasting dramatically with the nearby fine ornate Baroque architecture. Today, the Looshaus is a working bank, but visitors are allowed into the lobby to view the elegant interior, which is richly clad in polished timber, green marble, and mirrors.

Other main sights overlooking the square include the Spanish Riding School; the Sisi Museum; the Neo-Baroque Herberstein Palace (Palais Herberstein); and two 18th-century apartment buildings known as Little Michael's House (Kleines Michaelerhaus) and Big Michael's House (Großes Michaelerhaus) – the latter being the former home of composer Joseph Haydn.

Tip:
Doing one of the horse-drawn carriage tours from here is highly recommended and worth the money as a great way to see central Vienna.