On 01 February 2024, Wien Museum is opening a special exhibition on the architect Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach, opens an external URL in a new window, whose masterwork Karlskirche is a Viennese landmark. One of the highlights of the exhibition is Fischer’s “Entwurff Einer Historischen Architectur, opens an external URL in a new window" (A Plan of Civil and Historical Architecture), the first illustrated history of global architecture, on loan from TU Wien Bibliothek’s collection. This work is part of TU Wien Bibliothek’s rare book holdings that make the library a treasure trove of cultural importance, providing public access to valuable historical material. The book is stored under optimal climatic conditions, while on the online catalogue, a digitalised version is made accessible to protect the original, contributing to the role of libraries in fostering education, research and an appreciation of culture.

Previously the exhibition, and TU Wien Bibliothek’s loaned work, was on view at Salzburg. A remarkable addition is a film produced by Wien Museum that is on show within the exhibition and allows viewers to leaf through the book.

Designed by Werner Feiersinger and curated by Andreas Nierhaus, the exhibition offers a new look at Fischer von Erlach’s oeuvre and promises to provide an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in art and history. The exhibition is on view until 28 April 2024.