Theresian Military Academy

The Theresian Military Academy stands in the castle of Wiener Neustadt in Lower Austria. Founded in 1751 by Empress Maria Theresa, it is one of the oldest military academies in the world. The castle itself dates back to the 12th century, though the academy’s history began when Maria Theresa ordered Field Marshal Leopold Joseph von Daun to create a school for officers. The academy once accepted equal numbers of noblemen and commoners, and its curriculum was originally eleven years long before being shortened. For 44 years, Archduke John of Styria served as its headmaster, shaping its traditions during the 19th century. The academy is recognised for its role in resisting Nazi occupation in 1938, when Lieutenant General Rudolf Towarek blocked Wehrmacht access to the castle. After World War II, the rebuilt academy resumed training officers in Wiener Neustadt. Today, it operates as a three-year programme leading to a bachelor’s degree, with over 3,600 officers educated since 1959. The first four women graduated in 2003, and recent classes have honoured historical units like the Kaiserjäger. The academy’s cemetery holds graves of notable figures, including Count Kinsky and Thérèse de Dillmont. Visitors find the castle’s historic halls and the academy’s church, where major ceremonies take place. The Theresian Military Academy Cemetery lies within its grounds, marked by gravestones of distinguished officers. Nearby Fort Daun, built during the Nazi era, now houses the Military High School. The academy’s current commander is Generalmajor Mag. Karl Pronhagl, overseeing a modern training programme. The castle’s architecture blends medieval and 18th-century styles, reflecting its long military and educational past.