Too much Franzl – Kaiser hype creates resentment in Capital of Culture

Bad Ischl is inextricably linked to Emperor Franz Joseph I. From 1849 to 1914, the monarch spent the summer in the Salzkammergut. In 1853 he became engaged to his Elisabeth (Sisi) in Ischl and was given the Imperial villa for their marriage. Year after year, the birthday of the historic regent is celebrated in a grand manner in August. The Kaiser hype is ringing the cash registers of trade and commerce. Nevertheless, dissatisfaction with the Kaiser crowds in Europe’s 2024 European Capital of Culture is growing.

One person who keeps his distance from the emperor is restaurateur and TV chef Christoph Held. He runs the Siriuskogl inn and has kept it ’emperor-free’ for three years. He renamed the Kaiserschmarrn to Koglschmarrn: “It is important to deal with the past. With regard to the year of Cultural Capital, we have to consider whether the city wants to position itself unilaterally or young, fresh and dynamic. The traditions, but also the landscape, make our area unique.”

Important for trade and tourism
He wonders if it’s the kitschy Sissi movies that completely glorify the memories of the monarchy. “It was a difficult time for the general public at the time. The declaration on the First World War was also signed in Bad Ischl.” SP city head Ines Schiller practices diplomacy: “The Imperial days are important for the economy, trade and tourism. However, you have to be sensitive to the subject. The historical background also sets limits.”