Haydn-Haus Eisenstadt
Burgenland
The Haydn-Haus Eisenstadt, located in the city of Eisenstadt in Burgenland, Austria, was the residence of the renowned composer Joseph Haydn from 1766 to 1778. This historic house, now a museum, preserves the living atmosphere of Haydn's time with original furniture, wall paintings, and personal items such as portraits, letters, musical scores, and a period Anton Walter fortepiano from 1780. The house features a baroque facade and a courtyard that once adjoined the city’s old walls. Haydn lived here with his wife Maria Anna Theresia, occupying five rooms on the upper floor, while students of Haydn also resided in the building. The museum's permanent exhibition focuses on Haydn's private life, recreating rooms like the kitchen and bedroom with authentic decor. Adjacent to the house is the Haydn Herb Garden, revitalized in 2002, which reflects the baroque garden style and includes a small garden house where Haydn is said to have composed. The museum also hosts special exhibitions and cultural events such as concerts and workshops, making it a vibrant center for music history and education. The Haydn-Haus stands as a cultural jewel in Burgenland, deeply connected to the legacy of one of classical music's most significant figures.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check the museum's official website for current opening hours and special events like concerts and workshops. The best time to visit is during the warmer months when the Haydn Herb Garden is accessible and guided tours are available. Advance booking is recommended for group tours and special programs. Free entry is offered with some regional cards such as the Museum Card and Burgenland Card. The museum provides engaging activities for families and children, including holiday workshops and birthday celebrations.
Interesting facts
- •Joseph Haydn lived in this house for 12 years, composing many significant works during his residence.
- •The museum houses an original Anton Walter fortepiano from 1780, an instrument Haydn likely played.
- •The Haydn Herb Garden adjacent to the house was revitalized in 2002 according to baroque garden principles.
- •A ten-ton marble monument of Haydn, created by sculptor Heidi Tschank, was unveiled near the herb garden in 2018.
- •Original wall paintings from Haydn's time were uncovered during renovations in 2009, preserving authentic 18th-century interiors.
History
The house dates back in part to the 16th century, as indicated by a Gothic window discovered in the building.
It was last renovated in 1747 before Joseph Haydn purchased it in 1766 from a widow who lived on the ground floor until her death in 1767.
Haydn lived there as the court Kapellmeister under the Esterházy family, who financially supported him, especially after the house was damaged by fires in 1768 and 1776.
In 1778, Haydn sold the house when the Esterházy court moved to Schloss Eszterháza.
The building was later expanded by subsequent owners.
A memorial plaque was installed in 1898, and in 1935, parts of the house were rented for the first Haydn museum.
The state of Burgenland took ownership after WWII and renovated the building into a dedicated museum in the 1970s.
Restoration work in 2009 revealed original wall paintings from Haydn's era.
Place Guide
Living Quarters of Joseph Haydn18th century
These rooms on the upper floor recreate Haydn's private living space with original furniture and wall paintings, reflecting the composer's domestic life.
Anton Walter Fortepiano1780
An original fortepiano from 1780 by Anton Walter, on which Haydn might have composed and performed.
Haydn Herb GardenRevitalized 2002, original garden from 18th century
A baroque-style garden revitalized in 2002, featuring culinary and medicinal plants Haydn and his wife cultivated, plus a garden house where Haydn composed.
Contact
Phone: 02682 7196000
