In the footsteps of Kepler in Linz and Upper Austria Johannes Kepler in Linz

Johannes Kepler counts as one of the founders of modern science. A large proportion of his life was spent in Linz, were he found ideal surroundings for his research and calculations.

He also completed his three renowned Kepler Laws here, which for the first time described the elliptical paths along which the planets moved around the sun.

Kepler was a strong character who played into the hands of fate by openly voicing his critical views. This made him homeless more than once. His life’s path stretched from his native town Weil through Leonberg, Graz, Prag, Linz, Ulm and finally to Regensburg, where he died on route back to Linz.

One of the most important stations of his life was Linz, where he lived from 1612 to 1626 and where he completed his principal work, the Rudolphine Tables. Set off on your own journey to Linz and discover more about this genius of Astrology, Astronomy and Mathematics.

The Kepler House & Kepler Salon

The house where Kepler lived is in the Rathausgasse. Since the European Capital of Culture Year 2009, it is also the home of the “Kepler Salon” which aims at an entertaining presentation of scientific themes.

A group of adults sits in a bright room and listens attentively to two speakers sitting at the front. Some are taking notes, while others are looking at a screen or whiteboard during the presentation.

Upper Austrian Library

In the new Upper Austrian State Library you can find many books about Kepler and an original manuscript. There is also an experience area, ”Old Book”, and baroque bookcases which you can visit free of charge.

On a sunny day, two people sit on pink benches under trees in front of a large gray building with the words Landesbibliothek on it and talk.

Kepler Memorials

The visitor to Linz will often encounter the spirit and images of Kepler: in the Kepler Pavilion in the Schlosspark, with its life-sized monument, the planet fountain at the Landhaus. One of the paintings in the arcades of the old city hall on the Linzer Hauptplatz shows a portrait of Kepler, another is found in the Linz Window of the Mariendom – the largest cathedral in Austria. The moondial on the old city hall displays the current phases of the moon.

A small, white pavilion with arched pillars and a statue inside stands in a park at night, above which trails of stars draw curved patterns of light in the sky. Trees and bushes surround the pavilion.

Johannes Kepler Observatory

2009 was the European year of astronomy. The Linz observatory therefore offers a number of attractive events in addition to its ongoing guided tours and programme.

A large telescope is located in an observatory dome and is pointed upwards. Nearby is a desk with a computer, cables and equipment. The roof of the dome is partially open and provides a view of the evening sky.

Johannes Kepler University

One of the loveliest Campus universities. Spaciously laid out The Johannes Kepler University offers an innovative choice of study programmes of international significance (e.g. Mechatronics). The park-like grounds invite you to walk around.

Open lectures stir the spirit and the refectory offers good food at a fair price.