The heart of the last Empress, Zita, is interred in a separate urn at the Chapel of Our Lady of Loreto in Muri, Switzerland.
The sarcophagus of Franz Joseph I remains surrounded by fresh wreaths and flowers, which are replaced regularly by the royal family's supporters.
A ritual known as the 'Knocking Ceremony' historically occurred during royal funerals, where the herald knocked three times on the crypt door to gain entry for the deceased.
The crypt contains the tomb of Napoleon’s son, the Duke of Reichstadt, whose remains were moved from Paris to Vienna in 1940.
The coffins are made of various materials, including pewter, copper, and bronze, reflecting the status and era of the deceased.
The Capuchin monks are still responsible for the pastoral care of the site, continuing a tradition started by Empress Anna in 1617.
Several sarcophagi feature elaborate sculptural details, including life-sized recumbent figures and complex allegorical symbols.
The Imperial Crypt, or Kaisergruft, serves as the final resting place for 150 members of the House of Habsburg, including 12 emperors and 18 empresses. Located beneath the Capuchin Church, the site has functioned as an imperial burial ground since 1633. The interior comprises multiple distinct vaults added over centuries, featuring intricate sarcophagi ranging from ornate Baroque styles to modest copper caskets. The most notable interment is that of Maria Theresa, whose massive double sarcophagus occupies the central vault. The collection spans nearly 400 years of Austrian history, ending with the burial of Archduke Otto von Habsburg in 2011. Visitors descend into the subterranean chambers, which maintain a climate-controlled environment to protect the metallic coffins. The architecture evolves from the original simple design to more expansive, multi-room tomb configurations. It remains a functioning site for the Capuchin friars who serve as the custodians of the crypt.
The central vault containing the sarcophagus of Maria Theresa offers the most striking view of imperial craftsmanship.
Visit on a weekday morning to avoid large tour groups that can make the narrow aisles feel crowded.
Read the provided information plaques carefully, as they detail the complex genealogical connections of the buried royals.
Dress in layers, as the temperature inside the underground vaults is significantly cooler than the ambient air outside.
Do not attempt to touch the sarcophagi, as the oils from human skin can accelerate the oxidation of the metal surfaces.
Open daily throughout the year; occasionally closes for special private funeral ceremonies or commemorative services.
Maintain a quiet, respectful tone; photography is permitted without flash, but remain mindful of other visitors.
