Vienna Christmas Market

For nearly five decades, the Vienna Christmas market has graced Rathausplatz annually. The tradition began in 1975 when Christmas wooden stalls were first erected by market stallholders. However, the roots of this festive market extend much further back in time, even if its name has evolved over the years. Dating back to 1600, the market was originally known as the “Thomasmarkt” on Vienna’s Graben, named after the apostle Thomas, one of the twelve disciples of Jesus. In 1772, it relocated to Freyung and was recognized as the “Nikolo and Christmas Market.” Its next move to Am Hof ​​square in 1842 marked the adoption of the name “Christkindlmarkt.” Hence, it’s accurate to affirm that the Vienna Christmas market has a rich history spanning 180 years.