Gym among the graves
A newly installed outdoor fitness area located inside one of Vienna’s cemeteries has sparked outrage in the Austrian capital, with residents accusing city authorities of turning a place of mourning into a ‘disrespectful’ recreational space.
Footage filmed at Friedhof Meidling shows exercise equipment installed among graves and tombstones, while funeral processions and visitors continue to move through the cemetery grounds.
The project, known as ‘Silent Fit,’ forms part of a redevelopment initiative at the cemetery.
Critics call it disrespectful
Vienna city councillor Lorenz Mayer of the conservative Austrian People’s Party (OVP) condemned the installation, arguing that cemeteries should remain places of reflection and remembrance.
“Fitness equipment has been set up right in the middle of the cemetery here, and to me, that’s somewhat disrespectful. Cemeteries are places of mourning, decorum and tranquillity; fitness equipment obviously doesn’t belong there,” Mayer said.
He also criticised the lack of consultation with local residents and mourners, saying the idea would never have emerged had the community been asked for input.
Public split over project
“Personally, I think working out at a cemetery seems kind of tasteless,” one visitor said, while another argued it could be seen as “a celebration of life.”
Others questioned whether public money had been spent wisely. One resident noted that the €35,000 redevelopment budget could perhaps have been directed toward more pressing needs elsewhere.
“We have other, other opportunities which are more important for us, for Austria,” Rasul, a local, commented.
The dispute has prompted the OVP to launch a petition against the project, turning the unusual fitness area into one of Vienna’s most talked-about local controversies.
Article by Viory.
More from Wake Up Singapore:
Pedestrians Rush Through Red Light Like Rules Don’t Exist, Drivers Frustrated Yet Again
Rider Amused After Motorbike Breaks Down And Turns Into An Unexpected Walking Adventure
Beach Diners Upset After Low Flying Helicopter Covers Food In Sand
If you have a story or a tip-off, email admin@wakeup.sg or get in touch via Whatsapp at 8882 5913.
Interested in advertising on our media channels? Reach out to us at admin@wakeup.sg!
Since you have made it to the end of the article, follow Wake Up Singapore on Telegram and X!
Wake Up Singapore is a volunteer-run site that covers alternative views in Singapore. If you want to volunteer with us, sign up here!
