Vienna: Sex, Scandal & Taboo History Guided City Tour

Vienna’s seamy past hides a world of sexual taboos and scandalous indulgences. From Napoleon’s notorious memento to the elite’s fixation on the sperm of intellectual luminaries, this guided tour promises to uncover the city’s risqué underbelly. Explore the prevalent brothels that catered to the carnal desires of high society and discover the lucrative sex work locales that dominated certain neighborhoods. Unravel the intriguing beliefs and practices that underscored Vienna’s 19th-century obsession with the physiological markers of genius. Prepare to be captivated by the city’s sordid, yet captivating, history.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best City Tours In Vienna.

Key Points

• Tour the notorious brothels and red-light districts that catered to Vienna’s elite and royal court during the 19th century.
• Explore the city’s long-held fascination with the perceived physiological markers of genius, including the belief in the distinct taste of ‘geniuses’ sperm.
• Discover the macabre story of Napoleon’s severed penis, which became a highly sought-after memento among private collectors for decades.
• Learn about the various techniques employed by sex workers to attract clients, from coy flirtation to strategic ‘window shopping’.
• Uncover the role of Vienna’s brothels as discreet hubs that facilitated the exchange of power, influence, and information within the royal court.

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Napoleon’s Infamous Memento

Napoleon’s penis, which was infamously cut off after his death, was later sold as a macabre memento of the once-powerful emperor. This gruesome relic was passed around among private collectors for decades, eventually ending up in the hands of a French urologist in the 20th century.

The story of Napoleon’s severed penis has long captured the public’s morbid fascination, raising questions about the ethics of preserving such an intimate body part. While some view it as a historical curiosity, others find the practice deeply disrespectful.

Regardless of one’s perspective, the tale of Napoleon’s infamous memento remains a bizarre and unsettling chapter in the annals of European history.

Brothels of Royal Court

Brothels were a prevalent part of daily life within Vienna’s royal court, catering to the elite’s carnal desires. Discreetly tucked away from prying eyes, these establishments offered a wide range of services to the city’s nobility.

Patrons could indulge in exotic fantasies with the most sought-after courtesans, who were known for their beauty, grace, and discretion. These brothels weren’t mere dens of iniquity, but rather intricate networks that facilitated the exchange of power, influence, and information among the upper echelons of Viennese society.

The city’s royal court was a realm where pleasure and politics intertwined, creating a tapestry of intrigue and scandal that still captivates historians today.

Prostitution in Everyday Life

Prostitution was a common and accepted part of everyday life in 19th century Vienna, with sex workers plying their trade openly throughout the city. Brothels were a fixture in the royal court, and prostitution was seen as a normal part of society.

The tour explores:

• The fact that sperm of ‘geniuses’ was thought to have a distinct taste
• Methods employed by city’s sex workers to attract clients
• Where the best money was made as a prostitute in 19th century Vienna

How prostitution was woven into the fabric of daily life and the prevalence of sex work and its integration into the city’s culture.

Genius Sperm Distinction

Amongst the more unusual beliefs of 19th century Viennese society was the notion that the sperm of intellectual luminaries possessed a distinct taste.

This peculiar idea stemmed from the prevailing view that genius was reflected in one’s bodily fluids. The city’s upper echelons were convinced that the sperm of eminent thinkers, scientists, and artists differed in flavor from that of the common man.

Though wholly unsubstantiated, this notion speaks to the era’s preoccupation with the perceived physiological markers of intelligence.

While this belief seems absurd by modern standards, it nonetheless underscores the societal fixation on the bodily manifestations of genius that pervaded Viennese high society during this period.

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Lucrative Sex Work Locales

While the peculiar notion of genius sperm had captivated Viennese high society, the city’s sex workers knew where the true money was to be made.

Certain neighborhoods and establishments were renowned for their lucrative trade, drawing in a steady stream of wealthy and influential clientele.

Some of the most profitable locations included:

• The affluent Innere Stadt district, home to brothels catering to the aristocratic elite
• The lively Leopoldstadt area, bustling with a variety of brothels and red-light establishments

Upscale gentlemen’s clubs in the Alsergrund neighborhood, offering discreet and exclusive services.

Notorious bordellos in the Mariahilf district, known for their lavish interiors and celebrity patrons.

Discreet private residences in the Döbling district, where the city’s wealthiest clients sought out the most sought-after escorts.

Prostitute Attraction Techniques

To attract clientele, Vienna’s sex workers employed a variety of techniques, leveraging their charm, allure, and strategic positioning within the city’s vibrant red-light districts.

They’d often station themselves near popular taverns and theaters, catching the eye of potential customers. Some would engage in playful banter or coy flirtation, drawing men in with their captivating personalities.

Others might flaunt their beauty, donning eye-catching attire to pique interest. Certain sex workers even utilized specialized methods like ‘window shopping’ – standing in lit doorways to showcase their assets and beckon passersby.

Through a combination of charisma, location, and showmanship, these savvy entrepreneurs maximized their earning potential in Vienna’s thriving sex trade.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Vienna: Sex, Scandal & Taboo History Guided City Tour offers a captivating 2-hour walking exploration through the city’s center, uncovering its secrets, scandalous stories, and intriguing historical details.

This tour isn’t suitable for those with back problems or mobility issues, as the focus is on discovering Vienna’s dark side and taboo history.

Highlights of the tour include:

• Kinky stories about the Viennese elite
• Insights into Vienna’s sex work and prostitution culture
• Shocking facts about historical figures like Napoleon
• Brothels popular in the royal court
• The surprising tastes of geniuses’ sperm

Participants will leave with a newfound appreciation for Vienna’s complex and often salacious past.

Tour Logistics and Details

The Vienna: Sex, Scandal & Taboo History Guided City Tour can be booked with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and participants can reserve now and pay later.

The tour is conducted in German and is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible to a range of visitors.

During the 2-hour walking tour, guests will discover the city’s secrets, scandalous stories, and intriguing details, though the tour isn’t suitable for those with back problems or mobility impairments.

The tour highlights include kinky stories about the Viennese elite, Vienna’s dark side and taboo history, as well as insights into the city’s sex work and prostitution in daily life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

The tour does not specify a minimum age requirement. However, the content may not be suitable for children, as it covers sensitive topics like sex work and historical sexual scandals. Parental discretion is advised.

What Happens if the Tour Is Cancelled Due to Weather?

If the tour is cancelled due to weather, customers will receive a full refund. The tour operator will contact them ahead of time to notify them of the cancellation and provide details on the refund process.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Photography is generally permitted during guided tours, though visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the experience for others. Tour guides may provide specific guidance on appropriate times and locations for taking photos.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, there may be an option to extend the tour duration. Guests should inquire about extending the tour when booking or speak with the tour guide on the day of the tour to see if this is possible.

Will There Be Any Breaks or Refreshments Provided During the Tour?

The tour does not mention any scheduled breaks or refreshments. However, guests should feel free to take short breaks as needed during the 2-hour walking tour. Water and snacks may be available for purchase nearby.

Recap

This guided tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Vienna’s sordid past, exploring the capital’s rich history of sexual taboos and scandalous indulgences.

From Napoleon’s infamous memento to the prevalence of prostitution catering to the elite, the tour unravels the city’s seedy underbelly, providing an intriguing and objective exploration of its captivating, yet risqué, legacy.

You can check if your dates are available here: