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Theseus Temple

Since 2012, the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Weltmuseum Wien have presented a single important work of contemporary art in the Theseus Temple in the Volksgarten every year.

The neoclassical structure was built between 1819 and 1823 according to the plans of court architect Peter von Nobile (1774–1854). Its original purpose was to house Antonio Canova’s sculpture Theseus Slaying the Centaur. For nearly seventy years, this masterpiece of white marble stood here until it was relocated in 1890 to the newly completed Kunsthistorisches Museum, where it remains to this day.

As part of its new WMW Contemporary format, the Weltmuseum Wien is presenting Washerwoman, a work by the interdisciplinary artist Shannon Alonzo (born 1988, St. Joseph, Trinidad and Tobago), for the first time in Austria from 16 May to 5 October 2025. 

The Weltmuseum Wien is pleased to offer visitors free admission to experience an extraordinary contemporary artwork in the Theseus Temple.

Address

Theseustempel
Volksgarten, 1010 Vienna
Google Maps

Opening times

Daily 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Free entry

Now on view

Shannon Alonzo, Washerwoman, 2018, Mixed media installation (beeswax, resin, brown cotton, wire, found objects) Courtesy of the artist
© Kibwe Brathwaite

16 May – 5 October 2025

Shannon Alonzo. Washerwoman

This exhibition is the first installment of WMW Contemporary, Weltmuseum Wien’s new format expressing its commitment to showcasing exceptional contemporary art, especially from the so-called Global South.

Theseustempel, Volksgarten, 1010 Vienna
Free entry

Exhibition

Further exhibitions

Our exhibitions take you back to the rich history of our museum. Here, proven masterpieces meet newly explored themes - a look at art, culture and the past that continuously illuminates the collection.