Greek Embassy Vienna – A Piece of Hellas in the Heart of Vienna
- Mika Vepsalainen
- 12 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Join us for a visit to the Greek Embassy in Vienna and experience a true slice of Greece from its glorious ancient past to its vibrant present.
Nestled in the elegant Palais Vrints zu Falkenstein, in Vienna’s distinguished Embassy Quarter in the 4th Bezirk, the building itself is a masterpiece of history and architecture. Originally built as the city residence of the noble Vrints family, this grand palace has served as the seat of the Greek Embassy since 1921.
The building is a true historic jewel. Maximilian Baron Vrints von Treuenfeld acquired the Falkenstein estate through marriage in 1850, and a decade later, Emperor Franz Joseph I granted him the title of Count. His magnificent Palais soon rose in Vienna, showcasing the splendor of the era. After passing briefly to the von Redlich family, the Government of Greece purchased the palace in 1921 for the permanent home of its embassy.
A fun fact and a small but touching footnote in the Austrian, Greek and European history: in 1938, Princess Marie Bonaparte stayed overnight here to help Sigmund Freud escape Vienna!
The architecture is truly impressive: the façade, built of natural stone in elegant French classicism, is crowned by neoclassical columns and falcons, the heraldic birds of Falkenstein. Look up to see the three sculpted figures above the entrance, with Nike, not the current concept but the goddess of victory, standing proudly at the centre.
Inside, you will be greeted by one of the most magnificent interiors of Viennese Baroque Historicism: ornate iron railings, herm pilasters, and ceiling frescoes that exude timeless sophistication. The former dining room still glows under its original crystal chandelier and the adjoining salons and the library add to the palace’s grandeur.
While the Embassy is not a museum, those who get the chance to visit, especially during Vienna’s annual Embassy Open House Days, are treated to an unforgettable glimpse of Greek elegance abroad. You’ll understand why working here feels like living in a work of art.
Due to the building’s historical nature, accessibility is unfortunately limited. There is no café or museum shop on-site, but just steps away lies Karlsplatz, where you can enjoy a coffee or a glass of retsina while discussing diplomacy, culture, or simply the beauty of both Vienna and Greece.
Embassy of Greece in Vienna
Argentinierstraße 14, 1040 Vienna
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