Hotel Sacher Vienna, which opened its doors in 1876, celebrates its 150th anniversary this year. The anniversary year began with the presentation of the sculptures Step Big and Dancer by renowned artist Erwin Wurm in front of the hotel entrance. The sculptures were ceremoniously unveiled earlier this year in the presence of the artist, Vienna’s Mayor Dr. Michael Ludwig and the hotel’s co-owners. The sculptures will remain on display throughout this anniversary year.

“The 150 years of Hotel Sacher Vienna stand for a long tradition combined with continuous renewal, as well as for the passion and excellence of the many people who have shaped the Hotel Sacher Vienna over generations, including guests and employees. It is thanks to them that we are able to stand here today,” said Alexandra Winkler and Georg Gürtler, co-owners, Hotel Sacher Vienna.

The installation can be understood as a poetic reflection on the “invisible baggage” each person carries, shaped by origin, history and experience. At the same time, this collaboration highlights Sacher’s strong connection to art and culture.

“I made these walking, jumping, dancing and stepping bags to address certain ideas about how we design ourselves, how we present ourselves, how we pretend, what we want to be, and how we want to be seen, both in the male world and the female world,” said Wurm.

The foundations of the Sacher-Torte date back to 1832, when Franz Sacher created the original Sacher-Torte. To this day, it is handcrafted in 34 individual steps and considered a culinary icon of Vienna. With the opening of Hotel Sacher Vienna in 1876, Eduard Sacher continued this success story and, together with Anna Sacher, established the hotel as an internationally renowned meeting place for society. Hotel Sacher Vienna is one of the few privately owned, family-run, 5-star, superior hotels; a member of The Leading Hotels of the World; and listed among The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025. The property has 152 rooms and suites.

The sculptures mark the beginning of the hotel’s anniversary celebrations. Further initiatives, such as messages from prominent personalities and a short film combining animation and live-action footage, will follow. More information about the hotel’s anniversary can be found here.