W. A. Mozart - Burggarten

The Enigmatic Melody of Marble: Mozart's Statue in Burggarten, Vienna

Vienna, a city that resonates with the echoes of classical music, is home to numerous tributes to its son, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Among these, the Mozart Monument in Burggarten stands out as a testament to the timeless legacy of this musical genius.

A Symphony Set in Stone

Nestled in the heart of Vienna's Burggarten, the Mozart Monument is not just a statue but a narrative in marble that captures the essence of Mozart's contributions to music. Unveiled on April 21, 1896, the monument is the collaborative masterpiece of architect Karl König and sculptor Viktor Tilgner.

The Composition of the Monument

The statue, towering at 7.5 meters, is crafted from Laas marble, sourced from Vinschgau, South Tyrol. It portrays the composer with a music stand, his gaze perhaps following the notes of an unseen concerto. The socle is adorned with intricate ornaments, masks, and wreaths, framed within a semi-circular balustrade made of rough marble from Sterzing.

Artistic Notes

The putti on the socle, symbolizing the power of Mozart's music, are suggestive of Art Nouveau style. The front relief presents scenes from Mozart's opera Don Giovanni, while the back side, based on a design by Louis Carmontelle, depicts a young Mozart playing music with his father Leopold and his sister Nannerl.

Historical Crescendos

The journey of the Mozart Monument has been as dramatic as the compositions of its honoree. Initially located at Albrechtsplatz, the monument suffered damage during the bombing of Vienna in 1945. It was restored and relocated to its current serene setting in Burggarten on June 5, 1953.

A Cultural Overture

Today, the Mozart Monument is more than just a sculpture; it is a cultural icon that attracts visitors from around the globe. It stands as a proud reminder of Vienna's rich musical heritage and the everlasting influence of Mozart's work.

As you stroll through the Burggarten, take a moment to admire this magnificent monument. Let the stone-crafted melodies transport you to an era where music was the highest form of expression, and Mozart, its master composer.

Sources: 

(1) Mozart Monument, Vienna - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mozart_Monument,_Vienna.

(2) The Mozart statue in the Burggarten - Visiting Vienna. https://www.visitingvienna.com/footsteps/mozart-monument-burggarten/.

(3) Mozart monument, Burggarten | All About Vienna. https://allaboutvienna.com/item/mozart-monument-burggarten/.