Austria's Urban Landscape: A Mix of History and Modernity, With Some Eyesores

From functional yet unappealing traffic hubs to nearly empty shopping centers, Austria's urban landscape has its share of eyesores. But initiatives like '9 Places - 9 Treasures' are encouraging dialogue about urban planning and environmental impact.

, and Administrator

2025 October 18 . 4:03 AM

1 min read

This is the picture of a place where we have some buildings to which there are some windows, green... — This is the picture of a place where we have some buildings to which there are some windows, green color clothes and also we can see some shops, boards and some trees and plants around.

Austria's Urban Landscape: A Mix of History and Modernity, With Some Eyesores

Austria's urban landscape, while rich in history and natural beauty, also bears the marks of industrialization and modernization. Some areas, once considered functional or modern, now face criticism for their lack of aesthetic appeal or environmental impact.

Matzleinsdorfer Platz in Vienna, a major traffic hub, exemplifies this. Despite its high functionality, it lacks charm, reflecting the building styles of the 1970s that prioritized functionality over aesthetics. Meanwhile, the Eko Oberwart shopping center, once a symbol of modernity, now stands nearly empty, a victim of changing consumer habits and competition.

Austria's industrial parks, many built from the 1990s onwards, have contributed to suburban sprawl. The operating industrial area in Ohlsdorf is one such example, earning the dubious title of one of Austria's largest 'concrete sins' from Greenpeace. The organization has listed several Austrian cities as the worst 'concrete offenders' or most unattractive places, though specific names remain elusive.

The Bregenz station, with its leaky roof and broken escalators, has been an eyesore since its opening. Similarly, the Dürnrohr power plant in Zwentendorf, a monument to industrial purpose-built architecture, stands as a stark reminder of human intervention in Austria's landscape.

Austria's urban landscape is a mix of historical charm and modern functionality, with some areas falling short in aesthetic appeal. Initiatives like the website countering the ORF show '9 Places - 9 Treasures' highlight these less photogenic sides, encouraging dialogue about urban planning and environmental impact.