Courses at Urania Wien

The Verein Wiener Urania, which was originally developed as a syndicate in 1897, spent thirteen years moving between various types of temporary accommodation including the “Urania Theatre” on the exhibition grounds in the Vienna Prater before settling in its own building – after a 5 year building period – in 1910. Generous donations enabled the building of the establishment, which is still in existence today, on the “Stubenring” (at the Danube Canal).

Since the beginning, the aim had always been to communicate scientific knowledge as an experience for all senses. Many lectures were held on social, regional, scientific and cultural topics with the help of projected glass transperencies, films shown in the interim and often specially composed music played by Urania's own resident orchestra. In addition, microscope courses, courses in painting, modelling and ceramics and languages were offered to the public, as well as an increasing number of courses in outdoor exercise in the 1920s and 1930s. The Urania had its own stage where plays were successfully performed.
The Urania clock on the outside wall of the building ensured the punctuality of all lecturers and course participants – its time could even be checked by phone! And, in accordance with its name, Urania is regarded as the muse of astronomy, there has been an observatory in the adult education centre ever since it was founded.