Historic Hotel Sacher Vienna Turns 150 with Special Sculpture Celebration

Hotel Sacher Vienna, one of the city’s most iconic and historic landmarks, is celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2026. To mark this monumental milestone, the hotel has unveiled two captivating sculptures by renowned Austrian artist Erwin Wurm. These installations, titled “Step Big” and “Dancer”, are oversized handbags balanced on slender legs and were ceremoniously revealed on 26 March 2026 in the presence of Vienna’s Mayor Dr. Michael Ludwig, the Sacher family, and the artist himself. The sculptures will remain on display throughout the anniversary year, symbolising the hotel’s deep ties to both art and culture.

Art Installations Reflect Hotel’s Legacy

The “Step Big” and “Dancer” sculptures are not just artistic expressions; they are a reflection on the “invisible baggage” that each person carries, shaped by origin, history, and experience. Wurm’s work, a blend of whimsy and profound meaning, also explores the themes of how we present ourselves in society—both in the male and female worlds. The oversized handbags, seemingly alive with movement as they “step” and “dance,” add a playful yet contemplative touch to the entrance of this historic hotel.

The collaboration with Erwin Wurm underscores Hotel Sacher’s longstanding relationship with Vienna’s artistic and cultural scene. Known for its blend of luxury and tradition, the hotel has long been a meeting place for society and an institution in both the world of hospitality and art. The introduction of these sculptures enhances its legacy, offering visitors an immersive experience that combines the elegance of a luxury hotel with the provocative nature of contemporary art.

“I made these walking, jumping, dancing, and stepping bags to address certain ideas about how we design ourselves, how we present ourselves, how we pretend, what we want to be, and how we want to be seen,” says Wurm, offering insight into his artistic process.

Hotel Sacher’s 150-Year Legacy

The history of Hotel Sacher Vienna dates back to 1876, but its roots extend further to 1832, when Franz Sacher created the world-renowned Original Sacher-Torte, a dessert that remains a symbol of Vienna’s culinary heritage. To this day, the famous cake is made by hand in 34 individual steps, ensuring the same rich flavor and tradition that it has carried for over a century.

The hotel itself was founded by Eduard Sacher and his wife Anna, who established the venue as a vibrant meeting place for Vienna’s elite. Over the decades, Hotel Sacher has maintained its reputation as one of the city’s top five-star hotels, renowned for its timeless elegance, impeccable service, and dedication to excellence. The hotel is one of the few remaining privately owned, family-run establishments in the luxury hospitality world.

In recent years, Hotel Sacher Vienna has received numerous accolades, including being named among The Leading Hotels of the World and securing a spot on The World’s 50 Best Hotels list for 2025. With 150 years of dedication to hospitality, this hotel continues to set the standard for luxury and service in Vienna.

A Hub of Culture, Tradition, and Luxury

Hotel Sacher is not only known for its hospitality but also for its cultural importance. Located in the heart of Vienna, the hotel has long been a place where art, music, and intellectual conversation converge. Its proximity to key attractions like the Vienna State Opera, Albertina Museum, and Hofburg Palace makes it a central part of the city’s cultural landscape, offering easy access for guests to experience the very best of Vienna’s history, art, and architecture.

For travelers seeking a true Viennese experience, Hotel Sacher offers more than just a luxurious stay; it provides an immersion into the city’s vibrant cultural scene. The Sacher-Torte, of course, remains a central symbol of this tradition, enjoyed by visitors from all over the world who come to sample the iconic cake in its original form, at the very hotel where it was created.

Celebrating 150 Years of Family and Excellence

As Hotel Sacher celebrates its 150th anniversary, it’s clear that the hotel’s commitment to family, tradition, and excellence is stronger than ever. The anniversary celebrations, which will continue throughout 2026, offer guests a chance to witness this legendary institution’s ongoing evolution. The unveiling of Erwin Wurm’s art installations is just the beginning of a year-long celebration, with a series of cultural and culinary events planned to commemorate this significant milestone in the hotel’s storied history.

As visitors step into Hotel Sacher, they are not only entering a world of luxury but are also stepping into the living history of Vienna itself. The Sacher family’s dedication to hospitality, the hotel’s connection to the city’s rich artistic heritage, and its longstanding tradition of world-class service make it an essential part of Vienna’s tourism and cultural fabric.

Whether you’re in Vienna for the cultural attractions, the historic landmarks, or simply to enjoy the ambiance of one of the world’s finest hotels, Hotel Sacher Vienna remains a top destination for those seeking an authentic, unforgettable experience.