About Graben: From Roman Trench to Vienna’s Luxury Boulevard
Graben, one of Vienna’s most well-known streets, carries a history that stretches back to its early Roman origins. The name “Graben,” meaning “ditch” or “trench,” reflects its function during the 1st century AD, when the Romans established Vindobona and dug a defensive trench along the northern city wall, where Graben now runs.
In the Middle Ages, the trench was filled in, and the area turned into a market. By the 12th century, under the Babenberg rule, Graben developed into a proper street, bustling with trade as stalls and shops filled the space, drawing merchants and locals.
One of Graben’s most recognizable landmarks, the Pestsäule (Plague Column), was erected in 1679 after the Great Plague, commissioned by Emperor Leopold I as a gesture of thanks for the city’s recovery.
During the Baroque period, the street saw modernization, as aristocrats and wealthy merchants built grand townhouses, elevating its status. By the 19th century, it had transformed into a luxury shopping district, with architects combining Baroque and modern styles in its redesign.
Today, Graben is a pedestrian-only street, lined with luxury boutiques, world-class cafés, and historic landmarks. Whether you’re here to shop, sightsee, or simply take in the atmosphere, Graben remains a vital part of Vienna’s rich heritage.
