Oh, Vienna #5

Schmuck!

The word sounds mildly offensive and not in the least attractive. But schmuck was the word on my wife's lips on this our last day in Vienna, "I must find a sparkly piece of schmuck to take home with me as a momento of this wonderful holiday!", she said.

And so the last morning was spent searching for schmuck in the heart of the city. It is not as if it was a last ditch effort to find a piece of schmuck as she had been searching from the very beginning her eyes lighting up as she eagerly approached the first schmuck stall at the first Christmas Market we visited.

We visited nine markets in all during our visit and every stall that had schmuck on display was carefully scrutinised as it might have the very treasure she was looking for.

Schmuck is the German word for jewellery, a rather unfortunate choice for such beautiful trinkets methinks!

Silberohrringe (silver earrings) were finally purchased in the Palais Dorotheum one of world's oldest auction houses, which is a most impressive building. The modern jewellery department on the top floor has a very extensive range on offer so my wife was spoiled for choice.

The final image of Vienna is of a new (to us) market which is in the square surrounding Stephansdom, Vienna's cathedral. You can see Steffl (the spire affectionately known locally as 'Wee Stevie') reflected in the windows of the modern restaurant Haas & Haas.

The extra photo is of one of the many schmuck stalls admired by my wife. I on the other hand found something else to admire at the stall!!

Thanks ever so much to those of you who have commented on this special holiday and for the stars and hearts that have been given, your kindness and interest is very much appreciated!