The Prater is a 6 km² public park in Vienna's 2nd district, Leopoldstadt. The name "Prater" is often used to refer to the Wurstelprater, an amusement park within the area.

History

Royal hunting ground

The Prater was first documented in 1403 and served as an imperial hunting ground from the 16th century onwards. Emperor Maximilian II expanded the area, introducing enclosures and hunting lodges. Access to the Prater remained restricted, with entry granted only to select individuals, such as nobles and imperial officials. Throughout the following centuries, various rulers reinforced these restrictions, further limiting public access. In 1538, to establish a direct connection between the Palais Augarten and the hunting grounds in the Prater, the 4.4 km long, straight Hauptallee was created, cutting through the forest, making it a continuous route to the Lusthaus.

Public access

In 1766, Emperor Joseph II opened the Prater to the general public, allowing people of all social classes to visit. Businesses, including coffee houses and inns, settled in the area, followed by early amusement attractions such as swings, carousels, and bowling alleys, laying the foundation for what became the Wurstelprater.

The late 18th century saw the rapid expansion of entertainment in the Prater.