Roata Prater, Viena

The Wiener Riesenrad is not just a Ferris wheel, but one of the most important symbols of Vienna, along with Schönbrunn Palace and St. Stephen's Cathedral. The wheel was built in 1897 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Emperor Franz Joseph I. At the time, it was one of the tallest Ferris wheels in the world and a symbol of the technological progress of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. During World War II, the wheel was severely damaged by bombing and fire. After the war, it was rebuilt and became a symbol of Vienna's rebirth. The wheel is about 65 meters high and consists of elegant red cabins that move very slowly. A complete rotation takes about 10–20 minutes, depending on the schedule of the day. Unlike modern glass-enclosed wheels, the Wiener Riesenrad cabins have a classic, almost romantic look, which makes you feel the atmosphere of Vienna more than 100 years ago. What you see from above On clear days you can admire: Vienna's historic center. The Danube River. Prater Park and the surrounding forests. The UN building in Vienna. Danube Tower. The hills and vineyards on the outskirts of the city. At sunset, the view is special: the roofs of Vienna take on golden hues, and the city lights gradually begin to light up. The wheel is located in the middle of the Prater, a huge park that combines: amusement attractions, roller coasters, restaurants and cafes, green alleys for walking and cycling. In the evening, the area is filled with colorful lights, music and the smell of cotton candy, caramelized almonds and Austrian specialties. A romantic place Many Viennese consider the wheel a special place for: marriage proposals, anniversaries, romantic dinners. There are even special booths where you can have dinner or champagne while it spins. It has appeared in famous films such as , The Living Daylights and Before Sunrise. , Danube Tower, The Danube and the green area of ​​the Prater.