| A golden statue stands on top of a pedestal in front of the University of Vienna. One of the oldest universities in Europe, it was established in 1365 by Rudolf IV of Habsburg. The university is situated in the heart of Vienna—the Innere Stadt (Inner City) was once surrounded by defensive walls. These walls were destroyed in 1857 and now a broad boulevard, the Ringstrasse, stands in its place. The boulevard is lined with imposing buildings (including the university), monuments, and parks. |