Beethovenhaus Baden, Entrance Ticket

Visitors may explore the residence where Ludwig van Beethoven resided from 1821 through 1823, experiencing firsthand the impact of his time spent in this location on both his personal and professional life. During their visit, they will have the opportunity to witness performances of his compositions, with particular emphasis on the Ninth Symphony.

Evidence suggests that Ludwig van Beethoven visited Baden 17 times between 1803 and 1816. Situated near Vienna, Baden offered a pleasant climate and affordable accommodations. As a prestigious spa town, Baden was characterized by its elegant architecture, bustling cultural scene, and picturesque surroundings.

In 1803, Emperor Francis II designated Baden as his summer residence. The city's center featured numerous venues such as theaters, coffeehouses, gambling parlors, and newly constructed opulent palaces by the city's elite and affluent citizens. The outskirts of the city displayed a more rustic charm, featuring charming alleyways, promenades, pavilions, and elevated viewpoints.

Accessible from Vienna via stagecoach, Baden became a popular destination for Beethoven. During his stay, he enjoyed exploring the region around Baden's surroundings, including the Helenental valley and the southern Vienna Woods. These outings allowed him ample opportunities to socialize and engage with like-minded individuals.

Beethoven spent considerable time composing during his visits to Baden, producing works that showcased his versatility. Notably, he composed canon-like pieces and humorous musical jokes for his companions. Major compositions such as "Mass in D Minor" (missa solemnis), "Symphony No. 3 ('Eroica')", "Pastoral Symphony," and "Ninth Symphony" saw significant development during these periods at Baden. Specifically, the concept of incorporating the Ode into the finale of the "Ninth Symphony" was first articulated in a sketchbook dated 1822. By 1823, Beethoven completed most of the composition for the "Ninth Symphony."

Notable visitors to Baden during Beethoven's stays included students, colleagues, publishers, fellow musicians, friends, and family members. When favorable weather conditions prevailed, they engaged in leisurely strolls in the surrounding countryside and shared meals together. Occasionally, they dined in the house where Beethoven resided.

Throughout his stays, Beethoven worked on various compositions, including major and minor works. Significant progress was made on substantial sections of his "Mass in D Minor" (missa solemnis"), "Symphony No. 3 ('Eroica')," "Pastoral Symphony," and "Symphony No. 9." Additionally, Beethoven penned many sketches for the "Ninth Symphony," specifically mentioning the inclusion of the Ode in the final movement.

Richard Nikolaus von Coudenhove-Kalergi, founder of the Paneuropean Union, proposed making the fourth movement of the "Ninth Symphony" an anthem for Europe. This suggestion was later adopted by the European Union in 1985, although a vocal-free version was chosen to avoid favoritism towards any particular language or culture.

A notable exhibit at Baden includes the house where Beethoven lived. Apart from the house itself, the museum preserves a lock of Beethoven's hair given as a souvenir upon his death. Another cherished possession is a grand piano crafted by the renowned Viennese piano maker Conrad Graf, originally belonging to Josef Perger, a local merchant and judge who hosted Beethoven several times during his visits to Baden. Beethoven frequently performed on this instrument.

To commemorate the bicentennial of Beethoven's birth, the historic fortepiano in the Beethovenhaus Baden has been restored to its former glory. This restoration project aims to preserve the original elements while ensuring optimal playability and authenticity. The grand piano continues to be used for recitals and performances, allowing contemporary audiences to appreciate the rich tapestry of Beethoven's compositional legacy through his own instruments.