56 CultureShock! AustriaThe Zentralfriedhof
The Zentralfriedhof in Vienna is the second largest cemetery
in Europe. It holds over 3 million people, or twice the
population of the city. There are approximately 50 funerals a
day, and it has special Jewish and Muslim sections. A number
of famous Austrians are buried here as well.
The cemetery is quite beautiful and is reminiscent of a
park, with green grass and trees everywhere. In fact, many
go there to unwind or take a stroll. On 1 and 2 November,
All Saints’ and All Souls’ Day respectively, the cemetery takes
on a jovial atmosphere. Würstelstände (sausage stands) and
Maronistände (chestnut stands) open up, friends and family
gather and the dearly departed are remembered.
The Japanese are especially
keen to see this cemetery. Some
say that it is the first place they
visit. Julie was very surprised to
see a chorus of Japanese women
singing beautifully next to Johann
Strauss’s grave. The women were
paying a most gracious homage to their favourite musician.Suicide
At one point at the turn of the 20th century, it was
commonplace to hear in Vienna of intellectuals dying by
their own hand. The best-known suicide at the time was that
of Prince Rudolf, the son of Franz Josef, who after killing
his mistress put a gun to his head. The suicide rate is still
high, some 17 per 100,000 according to the World Health
Organization, with men more than three times as likely as
women to do so. The reason is not certain. It is speculated
that some people believe that in death, they will achieve the
recognition denied during life. It has also been said that the
warm winds that occur in the fall, the Föhn, have debilitating
mental effects, causing some to kill themselves.Religion
The main religion in Austria is Roman Catholicism. The
Habsburgs made it the religion of their empire and foughtIf you are interested in how the
Viennese are laid to rest, head
to the Vienna Funeral Museum.
You can check out its collection
of urns, coffins, shrouds, funeral
vehicles and more.