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Situated on the south side of Rathausplatz, this edifice designed by the Danish architect Theophil Hansen, is one of the most striking examples of the Ringstrasse era's architecture. From street level, it is difficult to see past the giant Corinthian portico and its accompanying wings and pavilions. Stand back, though, and it becomes clear that the main body of the building—home to the Bundesrat (Federal Council) and Nationalrat (National Council) of the Austrian parliament—is mostly hidden behind the projecting facade. Between the two ramps, decorated with Roman horse-tamers and seated historians, stands a gargantuan statue of Athene, Goddess of Wisdom. She presides over a fountain served by four writhing mermen, representing the rivers Danube, Inn, Elbe and Moldau.
