2024 - Vienna - Original Viennese Snow Globe Manufactory

It is the year 1900: In Vienna, the surgical instrument mechanic Erwin Perzy establishes the Viennese snow globe factory. Through experiments with a cobbler's globe, aimed at improving the then-new carbon filament lamp, he accidentally discovers something magical: with water and semolina, he creates a snowfall effect within the world of a globe. When he finally adds a miniature inside, it is born – the first snow globe in the world!

Over the years, the perfect 'snow' is developed – a closely guarded trade secret that makes the snow globes from Vienna unique to this day. Meanwhile, the fourth generation continues the tradition, and the handcrafted works of art are exported around the world.

Of course, during our visit to Vienna, we wanted to discover this historic place for ourselves and planned a detour to the factory at Schumanngasse 87, 1170 Vienna. But here is the honest truth: The associated shop unfortunately did not fully convince us. The store feels a bit outdated, and the integrated 'museum,' which showcases some machines, deserves a more modern presentation.

Nonetheless, we were not alone – other tourists, especially from the USA, had also found their way here and were happily shopping. We also chose a few small snow globes for ourselves, as their craftsmanship and long history make them something special.

By pure chance, we later discovered a sales stand of the Viennese snow globe factory at the Christmas market in Schönbrunn Palace – a completely different experience! Here, everything was lovingly and festively arranged, making the globes look much more elegant and valuable.

Our conclusion: If you are looking for a genuine Viennese souvenir, you should definitely consider the original snow globes. They are not only beautiful but also tell a unique story – after all, they were invented right here!