Austria, a central European country with a rich cultural history, found itself deeply entwined in the tumultuous events of World War II. In 1938, Austria was annexed by Nazi Germany in the Anschluss, an annexation that marked the beginning of its involvement in the war. Austria’s strategic location made it a crucial part of the conflict, serving as a gateway to the Eastern Front and a source of resources for the Axis powers.

Vienna, the capital of Austria, witnessed significant impacts during World War II, particularly in the context of the air war. As a major cultural and economic hub, Vienna became a target for Allied bombing raids. The city faced extensive damage as a result of relentless aerial bombardments aimed at disrupting German war efforts. The iconic architecture and historic landmarks of Vienna suffered substantial destruction, leaving lasting scars on the cityscape including the giant airraid-bunkers or Flaktürme.