History of archaeology museums often talk about travelling back in time, with guides relying solely on the vivid imagination of visitors. But not everyone can imagine life in a medieval town or lavish receptions in palaces.
In Vienna, however, it is possible to take a short trip back in time and meet the people who played an important role in the history of the Austrian capital. All you have to do is visit the Time Travel attraction. Children who appreciate modern technology more than historical buildings will love the multimedia journey back to a time when Vienna was called Vindobona.
Some of the special effects are instantly recognisable to children - everyone has been to a 5D cinema. But even if they know how it works, they will be stunned when the characters in the old film suddenly start talking. As soon as the hand of the ancient clock starts to turn backwards, it is better to put the analysis of the scene aside for a while and look at Vienna through the eyes of, say, a Roman legionary rushing to formation.
Or through the eyes of a rat bringing a terrible plague to the city. Or through the eyes of a carriege with the horses going through the ancient streets. This tour of Vienna will never be boring! In the 5D cinema you can watch films about some moments in the city's history. And it's no surprise that the opening of Vienna's coffeehouses and the appearance of the Sacher cake are on a par with the construction of St Stephen's Cathedral.
But the attraction has other secrets. How is it that members of the Habsburg dynasty come to meet you? What magic is there in watching Mozart and Strauss compose music? Why is it frightening to be in a bomb shelter when the sky above is peaceful? Instead of trying to solve these puzzles, why not get to know the familiar faces and sights of Vienna? Celebrities include Empress Sissi, Sigmund Freud, Otto Wagner and Gustav Klimt.
And some of the most famous sights in the Austrian capital include Schönbrunn Palace, Belvedere Palace and the Giant Ferris Wheel in Prater Park. Make sure you get a bird's eye view of these architectural masterpieces - that's where the winged Fiaker takes you. Here the Fiaker takes you back to the present. With 5D cinema, animatronic wax figures, rides and multimedia shows, as well as extraordinary sound and light effects, Time Travel Vienna brings the moving history of Vienna to life in a unique way.
You'll be accompanied on your journey through time by guides whose interesting and witty narrations will be more memorable than a dry history textbook. If necessary, you can use an audio guide (available in ten languages, including Russian).
The organisers of the attraction point out that the films do not contain any scenes that might frighten young children. However, it is not recommended to take young children on a World War II tour.
This is a very popular attraction in Vienna. To avoid queuing, you can book your visit by telephone or on the Time Travel website.
