Big Wheel, Vienna
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Big Wheel, Vienna
Big Wheel built by British engineer Walter Bassett and opened in the Prater, Vienna, on 21 June 1897
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 4311959
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10015229
1897 Bassett Engineer Fair Ground Fairs Opened Prater Rides Vienna Walter Wheel Wheels
EDITORS COMMENTS
This image transports us back in time to the historic Prater amusement park in Vienna, Austria, circa 1900. At the heart of the park stands the majestic Big Wheel, a marvel of engineering and innovation that opened its doors to the public on June 21, 1897. Designed and built by the British engineer Walter Bassett, this grand attraction was a true sensation during its time. The Big Wheel, also known as the Riesenrad, was a significant addition to the Prater fairground, which had been in operation since 1766. With a height of over 65 meters, it was one of the tallest Ferris wheels in the world at the time, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. Walter Bassett's design was a departure from earlier Ferris wheels, which used a central column to support the wheel's structure. Instead, he employed a unique trussed-frame design, making the Big Wheel more stable and efficient. Each gondola could accommodate up to eight passengers, who would be lifted to the top of the wheel at a leisurely pace, providing them with an unforgettable experience. The Big Wheel quickly became a symbol of Viennese culture and a must-visit attraction for tourists from around the world. It continued to operate until 1944, when it was severely damaged during an air raid. The wheel was eventually rebuilt and restored, and it remains an iconic part of the Prater amusement park to this day. This photograph is a testament to the rich history of the Big Wheel and the Prater fairground, offering a glimpse into the past and reminding us of the joy and wonder that these attractions have brought to generations of visitors.
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