Museum
Venus of Willendorf
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The Venus of Willendorf is one of the world's most iconic prehistoric artifacts, a small limestone figurine of a voluptuous female figure carved over 30,000 years ago. Despite its name, the figurine is not displayed in Melk but at the Natural History Museum in Vienna, where it is a centerpiece of the prehistoric collection. The museum offers a comprehensive exhibit on the Venus, including its discovery near Willendorf in 1908, its cultural significance, and the archaeological context of the Gravettian period. Visitors can see the original figurine up close in a climate-controlled display, alongside other artifacts from the same era. The museum's setting is grand, with impressive architecture and extensive natural history exhibits. A visit to see the Venus is a journey into humanity's deep past, making it a must-see for history buffs and art lovers.
Don't miss
- View the original 30,000-year-old Venus figurine up close
- Explore the museum's prehistoric collection and other artifacts
- Learn about the Gravettian culture and the figurine's discovery
- Admire the museum's grand architecture and exhibits
- Visit the museum's other natural history galleries
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Venus of Willendorf
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inDanube Valley and Melk Abbey Guided Day Trip from Vienna4.1★ · 1,592 travelers8–11 hoursFree cancellationFrom$142 per personSee dates →
Best full day3 Castles & Wine Private Tour in Wachau Valley with Melk Church5★ · 23 travelers8–9 hoursFree cancellationFrom$431 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleVienna: Private Tour Wachau Dürnstein and Melk5★ · 11 travelers5–7 hoursFree cancellationFrom$232 per personSee dates →More attractions in Melk