Marking the 60th foundation anniversary of the Austrian Cultural Forum in Tehran and 100th death anniversary of Otto Wagner, “Otto Wagner, Endless Town” was launched on August 14 in the presence of Austrian Ambassador to Tehran Stefan Schulz, deputy of Urban Development and Architecture of Tehran Municipality Piruz Hananchi as well as Yasser Jafari, an official from Tehran Beautification Organization, Honaronline reported.
Wagner (1841-1918) is known for his lasting impact on modernism and the urban landscape of his hometown Vienna. He inspired generations of architects in countries far and wide.
In a speech at the inauguration ceremony of the program, the Austrian ambassador said that in a trip he had to the ancient city of Yazd, he visited the old buildings and their wind towers (a traditional Persian architectural element to create natural ventilation in buildings) and thought the constructions would be interesting for Austrian citizens since the people have an inclination towards living in healthy houses “built with materials such as wood, straw and mud.”
The trip resulted in an agreement between Iran and Austria on holding workshops for sharing knowledge in various art fields and architecture, particularly architecture of Yazd. The historical city of Yazd was recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2017.
Source: Financial Tribune