Freud Museum in Vienna Sets New Visitor Record in 2024
The Sigmund Freud Museum in Vienna has achieved a new visitor record in 2024, with a total of 140,424 people visiting the iconic address on Berggasse 19, a four percent increase from the previous year. This marks a successful continuation of the museum’s success in 2023 and a new high.
International Visitor Streams
According to the museum’s leadership, the majority of visitors were German, making up 16 percent of the total, followed by Italians with 13 percent, and US-Americans with 11 percent. Domestic visitors from Austria also made a significant presence, accounting for nine percent.
“The international interest in Freud and his work remains unbroken” said Director Monika Pessler, highlighting the exhibition “The Uncanny: Sigmund Freud and the Arts” as a key factor in the museum’s success, which appealed to a broad audience.
The museum is located in the former living and working quarters of the founder of psychoanalysis, where Freud practiced from 1896 to 1906 in the “medical apartment” on the upper floor of the house.
The House’s History
The Sigmund Freud Museum is situated in the former home and workspace of the founder of psychoanalysis. After extensive renovation and expansion, it was reopened in 2020. Today, the museum not only presents Freud’s life’s work but also connects it to contemporary art and current social issues.
Preview of 2025
Under the theme “Being Human” the museum is planning a range of new initiatives for 2025, including an online exhibition that explores different aspects of human existence. A special highlight will be the special exhibition “The Freud Case: Documents of Injustice” which will showcase new archival findings on the persecution and destruction of the Freud family.
“Everything that fosters cultural development also works against war” said Freud in “Why War.”
Another highlight is the Sigmund Freud Lecture, which takes place on Freud’s birthday, May 6, and will feature South African writer and Nobel laureate J.M. Coetzee as the speaker. Coetzee, who received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2003, is considered one of the most important contemporary authors.
The Sigmund Freud Museum has established itself as one of the most important cultural institutions in Vienna, attracting visitors with a successful mix of historical heritage, current themes, and high-profile events. With new impulses and continued international appeal, the museum promises an exciting year in 2025.