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IMP Research Report 2002

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View of the “Stephansdom” from the Belvedere garden<br />

Belvedere<br />

VIENNA / AUSTRIA<br />

Vienna is the capital city of Austria and home to about 1.5 million people. It is the administrative, political and cultural<br />

centre of the country. Geographically, Vienna’s location reflects its historic role at the heart of the large Habsburg empire.<br />

Today, with Eastern European countries about to join the European Union, Vienna recognises its chance to become an<br />

economic and cultural hub for Central Europe.<br />

Located between the eastern slopes of the Alps and the fertile plains of the river Danube, Vienna enjoys astounding<br />

diversity in scenery and activities. One-hour drive can take you to alpine country with opportunities for hiking, climbing or<br />

skiing. Travelling in a different direction, you will find yourself at the shores of the lake Neusiedlersee with excellent<br />

conditions for sailing and windsurfing in summer and ice-skating in winter. Change your route again and you’ll reach the<br />

serene “Waldviertel”, a densely forested, sparsely populated region with ponds, creeks and moors to explore.<br />

Partly within the city’s boundaries is the “Donauauen” National Park, a floodplain forest that extends all the way to the<br />

Slovakian border and features rare populations of deer, heron and beaver. Also among Vienna’s unique curiosities: it is<br />

the only capital city with a substantial wine production on its grounds. Rolling hills rich in vineyards add to the beauty of the<br />

scenery surrounding the city.<br />

If you are interested in culture, art and history, Vienna has more to offer than you can possibly manage to see and do.<br />

Opera, concerts and theatre, although performed by world-famous ensembles, are not seen as elitist entertainment but<br />

are affordable enough to be enjoyed by everyone.<br />

Art, music and literature are certainly Vienna’s major<br />

“obsessions” but there is also a long-standing tradition in<br />

science. Founded in 1365, the University of Vienna is the oldest<br />

university in the German speaking world and by far the largest<br />

one in Austria, offering 130 types of degree programs. In total,<br />

there are eight universities in Vienna alone. With a student<br />

population of more than 100 000, Vienna offers not only the<br />

academic but also the cultural and social infrastructure that<br />

comes with student life. So, if you plan to settle down here for<br />

a few years, be prepared for numerous visits by friends and<br />

relatives.<br />

Michaelertor, Hofburg<br />

Vienna / Austria<br />

7

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