Austrian Rhapsody: A Symphony of Emotions

Budapest to Vienna

I was 23 years old when I first traveled to Austria. A young man immersed in the world of cinema, music, and culture, I was about to set foot in one of the most artistic cities in the world. Everything seemed like a dream come true back then.

Since childhood, I had believed in living my dreams and doing the things I wanted to do in my retirement years. I loved to rush towards what I loved, no matter how small it might be; even if it meant eating a pastry at an Austrian restaurant, one where you could listen to a musician playing Mozart from the window. However, this belief has diminished my motivation for living over time, which I will write more about.

You are not supposed to read a travelogue from me. It will be my emotions that put the words together. My world is a different one; it's as if I'm living the life of a character from an ancient novel. A character who sometimes gets tired of it all and hits the road. My journey to Vienna begins with a taxi ride from Budapest after leaving my dear friends Victoria and Zoltan.

I arrived in Vienna with two backpacks, ready for a long journey.

Donnerbrunnen / Neuer Markt

In Austria, my emotions reach their peak. Art is a way to release emotions, and I have clung to various forms of art throughout my life. Vienna is a place for me to confront myself, where it seems that the artists who once lived in this city shared similar emotions to mine.

I think of Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, Salieri, and Brahms, those with whose works I have lived. I think that Beethoven, whom I have listened to from dawn until the moonlight, walked the same streets that I now walk. These small events in life have given me great things, deep emotions beyond words. Words... sometimes there are no words to express emotions, and perhaps a new language needs to be created for that.

I stand in the "The Neuer Markt" square, which was a battlefield during World War II and where everything was destroyed.

One of the most important and impressive parts of the Neuer Markt is the Donnerbrunnen fountain, designed by Georg Raphael Donner and built from 1737 to 1739. This place was a popular gathering place for Viennese subcultures in the 1980s.

In the middle of the fountain stands Providentia, a symbol of foresight or good governance. It is surrounded by four allegorical figures representing rivers in the Kingdom of Austria.

Leopoldsbrunnen by Johann Martin Fischer

Humans strive to create everything they make in the most beautiful way possible, regardless of whether or not that thing turns out to be beautiful. It could be their life, their relationships, their children, or a work of art. Humans are perfectionists.

I am captivated by the works of sculptors, they know this well, they give it well to the eyes. Michelangelo's works, for example, often sculpted humans with a perfect body. Or this one, Leopoldsbrunnen by Johann Martin Fischer, who himself was a developer of an anatomical model for nude studies.

What gives special importance to history and art is the lessons from past humans. Human thought and perfectionism throughout history are evident in the artworks of past centuries. Therefore, it can be discovered that everything we have made, despite the desired result, has been forged in perfectionism; and this is enough to not suffer from our past and only learn from it. You may sometimes be the creator of something that does not have a pleasant result. Why not?

Streets of Vienna: Part 1

The sun is more beautiful in rainy cities; I walk under the sun and enjoy watching my shadow, I exist; years have passed and I have become the hero of my own life. As if I am living a novel that I have read more than the others, as if I am living a character that I know more than anyone else.

In these thoughts, I think about the smallest details, I understand the art behind everything, with a glance at anything, its origin passes through my eyes suddenly and instantly. To the ground, how the artist has turned them into asphalt by mixing sand and bitumen, looking at the buildings and works of Viennese artists, the image of architects of past centuries passes through my eyes, with each ray of sunlight on the cars, I think that maybe everything don't come together like this, maybe everything will never be like this moment; I look at the sky, maybe the clouds will never be together like this.

I look at the people and think about them being together, the moments they have together, the words they put together, the time, the way the sun shines on their skin at that moment, the way they sit and look at each other... maybe everything will never be the same again as it is now. These are my thoughts in Vienna.

Karlskirche (St. Charles Church)

What draws me to Baroque architecture is the architect's methodical endeavor to create an irregular and intricate structure. It's as if art has broken free from the constraints of rules, allowing the artist's emotions to reign supreme.

Emerging from the early 17th century, Baroque architecture, inspired by Humanism, swept away the Mannerist style. In contrast to the rigid rules and emphasis on intellect that characterized Classicism, Baroque architecture embraced emotion and intuition as its guiding principles. This architectural approach sought to create harmony and order amidst a diverse range of elements and concepts, seamlessly blending them into a grand spectacle that encompassed the entire space. The central goal of Baroque architecture was to establish a unified spatial experience, carefully organizing subordinate spaces and the main entrance. To achieve this, Baroque architects masterfully employed sculptural elements, paintings, and other decorative arts, weaving them into a cohesive and impactful whole.

Karlskirche (St. Charles Church) in Vienna, a Baroque masterpiece built in 1737, stands as one of the most captivating examples of Baroque architecture for me. Its intricate details, soaring arches, and harmonious blend of light and shadow create an atmosphere of awe and inspiration.

Did you know that according to statistics, Vienna is the world's cleanest city?

Hotel Sacher Vienna

Vienna takes me back in history, to lives that were once beautiful. To love stories so grand they could be movies, it takes me to music, to a center where art has reached its peak.

Vienna takes me to the beating heart of music, where eternal melodies seep into the fabric of my being and caress my soul. It's as if I'm walking through a magnificent hall, where artistic giants created their masterpieces, and every melody tells a story of love and beauty.

Behind me you can see the Hotel Sacher Vienna, one of those places that has seen many. One of the most famous hotels in the world, a member of Leading Hotels of the World, built in 1876 near the former home of Antonio Vivaldi, facing the Vienna Opera House, it has hosted many famous people.

Some of the guests: Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria, King Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson, Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Rainier III of Monaco and Grace Kelly, John F. Kennedy

Herbert von Karajan, Leonard Bernstein, Plácido Domingo, and José Carreras, Rudolf Nureyev, John Lennon and Yoko Ono, Sharon Stone, Justin Bieber and Naomi Campbell.

My photography in Vienna, Part 1

Thoughts in Vienna

Humanity, entangled in the cage of being, is embraced by suffering from the birth they did not choose to the inevitable arrival of death. Throughout this short passage, they strive to sweeten the taste of life with effort and exertion. Sometimes they work, sometimes they marry, sometimes they make children, and sometimes they follow their inherent desires to slightly lessen the bitterness of this forced journey.

However, amidst this, a torment more heart-wrenching, more stinging than any wound, casts a shadow over their soul and being: the censure of others. Humanity, striving for liberation from the cage of being, is repeatedly subjected to the censure and judgement of others on this path full of ups and downs. As if being trapped in an invisible cage is not enough, as if the suffering of passing time is not already wearing them down, they must also bear the burden of the censure and condemnation of others. These censures are a merciless whip on the wounds of their soul, doubling their suffering.

Life, in this view, is like a cage in the sky. A bird, yearning for freedom, may sometimes taste flight, but an invisible cage holds them in its grip. Suffering and hardship are humanity's constant companions in this cage, whether they are poor or rich. No one is spared this suffering, and each human being grapples with the difficulties and challenges of life in their own way.

My photography in Vienna, Part 2

Albertinaplatz: Part 1

Time lends depth and meaning to memories; for me, it has always been so. A memory that hasn't been seasoned by time is a raw, meaningless fragment of our existence. Having visited Vienna as a teenager, I find a living memory in every corner of that city today. The scent of Mozart fills the air, and even without hearing a sound, I feel it with all my being. Have you ever experienced such a sensation? I have always traveled with my whole heart. I immerse myself in the city and feel things that even a native might not.

In Vienna, I lived with all my senses. My imagination soared beyond time, and I envisioned eras before my birth. I can picture Mozart, adorned in his finery, stepping towards the Vienna Opera House. I can create images that words cannot capture. In this fast-paced world, where I have so little time to spend online, I hope my words have managed to convey a glimmer of that feeling.

Streets of Vienna: Part 2

Gustav Klimt’s paintings, walking in the footsteps of Mozart and Schubert, the fall of an empire, the story of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, its architecture and cafes - these are enough to make me feel truly present here.

I know countless stories of this city, I know countless artists, and I’ve read its history. Vienna is a place where I prefer to be alone with my thoughts. My spirit connects with this city after only a few days as if I’ve lived here for years. I know many who have fallen in love, made love, left and returned in times of war.

I travel for things that might be less important to others; more for the internal and profound things that cannot be written or spoken about, cannot be captured by a camera. It's difficult to convey feelings and atmosphere. This is why I sometimes hesitate to share my writings and images, as if I’m wasting them, as if I might find better words to express my feelings if I wait longer. But in the hustle and bustle of life, I’m forced to continue living and being.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Sometimes, amidst the bustling crowds of touristy cities, I feel an overwhelming urge to shout and break free from the throng. I crave solitude, a chance to escape the noise and reconnect with myself. I yearn to return to my introspective, deep-thinking self, someone who finds solace in nature, music, and their own emotions. Despite my admiration for Vienna, the following morning I escaped the city to visit a cemetery, the main reason for my trip.

It's the resting place of Mozart, the musical genius whose works have been a constant companion in my life. A serene place, devoid of tourists. Here, for a brief moment, it's just me and Mozart; a place where I feel closest to the composer who has shaped so many of my memories. The creator of melodies that will forever be etched in my mind, a man who was also a passionate traveler. He's often referred to as the 'God of Music' or the 'Lord of Music.' The very man who inspired other musical giants like Beethoven and Schubert.

I want to sit here for hours, pondering Mozart and the countless moments his music has touched my life. Perhaps I should reflect on my entire life.

"Listening to Mozart with Mozart": Despite having listened countless times to the greatest musicians of our time, sitting in orchestra seats, at the heart of grand symphonies, hearing Mozart, along with Mozart, is a unique experience, perhaps incomprehensible to many. It’s as if my soul merges with that of an artist from two centuries ago who has inspired generations.

Mozart, although not my best musician, has inspired many of my beloved artists. His Symphony No. 40, in particular, has been a companion through all the ups and downs of my life, and holds beautiful memories.

This is why I travel, this is why I've promised myself to find new ways to convey my feelings. In this spirit, I tried to capture this feeling. I placed the camera on a tripod and made a short video. Do you share similar feelings with me?

Vienna Central Cemetery

I wander through Vienna's central cemetery, submerged in a sea of thoughts. Maria Altmann comes to mind, and I gaze upon the crowd; people who find solitude in the memory of the departed. Every human being, whoever they may have been, lives on in the heart of time. The timeless works of Beethoven, Schubert, and Mozart echo in my mind, even without sound. Beethoven, a name that transcends a person, symbolizing a golden age of music.

Cemeteries hold a special place in my travels; I often dedicate a day to them. I learn from them, experience strange emotions; positive energies that sometimes culminate a journey. Exactly ten years ago, I began visiting these silent yet vibrant places. Although I sought the graves of great artists and thinkers, it was merely an excuse to visit the end of the world. For me, cemeteries are the final stop on life's journey; a world that is round and endless; even the end can extend beyond cemeteries, as Beethoven instilled this belief in our hearts with his immortal music.

Ludwig van Beethoven

Beethoven, an eternal masterpiece of the 18th century, emerged from the depths of Germany to elevate music to new heights. I have spent my entire life pursuing his works; tracing his steps from his ancestral home in Bonn to his final resting place in Vienna. All the moments I have lived with Beethoven's compositions come alive here.

Ludwig van Beethoven's pieces, including nine symphonies, five piano concertos, one violin concerto, thirty-two piano sonatas, sixteen string quartets, two masses, and the opera Fidelio, especially the Piano Sonata No. 14, the Moonlight Sonata, have made him one of the most prominent artists of my entire lifetime.

I became acquainted with Beethoven's music as a child, without knowing who he was. I lived with his pieces for years, as if I understood all the ups and downs of his works. After Chopin, it is his music that has shaped my richest moments with myself, brought me closer to myself, and I have found myself immersed in his compositions.

This is the Central Cemetery of Vienna, where three of my favorite artists lie. Here, beside Beethoven, I listened to his 'Moonlight Sonata'; however, because it was crowded, I couldn't film it.

Franz Schubert

Franz Schubert, the composer behind the timeless 'Ave Maria' and the enchanting 'Serenade,' crafted a vast musical legacy in his tragically short life. Though far younger than Beethoven, he was profoundly influenced by the master, yet he never imitated. In many of his works, the violin takes center stage, with the piano providing a delicate accompaniment. This Austrian composer, who lived a mere thirty-one years, became a beacon for all musicians, illuminating the hidden depths of music.

A penniless youth with a boundless love for song and symphony, for poetry and Goethe, Schubert composed over a thousand musical pieces. Even his "Unfinished Symphony" was discovered posthumously.

He revered Beethoven so deeply that upon their first meeting, he was overwhelmed with nervous excitement and fled the scene. In accordance with his wish, he was laid to rest near Beethoven's grave.

My personal connection to Schubert's music began with his masterpiece, 'Serenade.' I had heard it countless times at various events, unaware of its creator. I often mistook his symphonies for Beethoven's until I finally discovered Schubert and a new world of musical possibilities opened up to me. Now, I am utterly enamored with his compositions.

Johannes Brahms

Johannes Brahms, the immortal creator of the Hungarian Dances, was a masterful German composer, pianist, and conductor, born in Hamburg and matured in Vienna.

Brahms stands as another legendary composer whom the world presented to music after Bach and Beethoven, to make the Romantic era even more beautiful and complete.

Brahms' extreme perfectionism compelled him to destroy many of his works or leave them unpublished.

In 1972, a coin was minted in Germany by the German Democratic Republic in the name of Johannes Brahms.

My introduction to his pieces was through a disc featuring my favorite violinist, Sarah Chang. Listening to her compositions, I discovered a diamond in these pieces. It was then, in my childhood, that I became acquainted with the Hungarian Dances and subsequently, other works by Brahms.

He was laid to rest a short distance from the graves of Beethoven and Schubert, but his works continue to be performed every day in all corners of the world.

The United Nations Office at Vienna

The United Nations Office at Vienna is one of the four main headquarters of this global organization. Established in the early 1980s at the invitation of the Austrian government in the capital, Vienna, it quickly became a significant center for United Nations decision-making and activities in Europe. By funding the construction of this large complex, Austria demonstrated its commitment to global peace and international cooperation.

Hotel Palais Coburg, Vienna

The magnificent Coburg Palace, built in the 19th century by Prince Ferdinand, is now one of Vienna's most luxurious hotels. This historic mansion, once owned by the Saxe-Coburg royal family and used as a royal residence for many years, was transformed into a five-star hotel in the 1970s and continues to preserve its historical legacy and past grandeur.

In 2015, the Palais Coburg hotel served as the primary venue for nuclear negotiations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and world powers. For 18 days, it hosted discussions that ultimately led to an agreement regarding Tehran's mullahs nuclear program. However, this accord did not endure.

Schönbrunn Palace

Lost in a gilded dream at Schönbrunn Palace. This imperial masterpiece isn't just a building; it's a time capsule of opulence and power. Originally a modest hunting lodge, it transformed into a symbol of Habsburg grandeur under Empress Maria Theresa.

She envisioned it as a rival to Versailles, and boy, did she succeed! The palace’s intricate architecture, Gothic, my favorite architecture, adorned with gold leaf and marble, is a feast for the eyes. From the opulent State Rooms to the serene gardens, every corner whispers tales of emperors, empresses, and historical significance. Imagine waltzing through the Hall of Mirrors or strolling through the meticulously landscaped grounds. It’s like stepping into a fairytale. Have you ever felt the magic of Schönbrunn?

I've been on the move for years, since before Instagram and social media were even a thing. You might call it 'traveling'. Over these years, I've discovered that my reasons for journeying, my encounters, my knowledge, and my thoughts have deepened. I can recall days from my earliest travels when I was more focused on social gatherings, photography, and what we now call 'content creation'.

Today, I experience everything on a richer level. My eyes seek out the dance of lights, my ears crave classical music, and my emotions yearn for the most complex human connections. Smiles, laughter, and the way light plays among the clouds, unique in every corner of the world, are what I now travel for.

Vienna is one such city that captured my heart seven years ago. A city where music and history flow through its veins, and it has always been recognized as a symbol of cultural sophistication and complexity. Not only is it the birthplace of classical music, but it's also a place where human interactions reach a depth and subtlety that might not be found anywhere else in the world.

Let's say I've directed my own life, the one I watch play out in my mind. As the first-person director, I may not have been very good, but I've been a great narrator of this winding path. From the beginning of the film until now, it's been filled with beautiful and sometimes bitter sequences. Now, it seems like the film is experiencing deeper, more realistic scenes.

Over the years, I've felt like a bird that never lands on a branch, never nests in a home, and is constantly migrating. Moments like laughter, deep conversations, music, scents, sounds, light, and even the sound of the wind in my ears have become the most enduring sequences of my life. I remember more the shadows of dancing leaves from my past journeys.

It feels like I've lived a deep life, a spectator of the continuous cycle of seasons. Sometimes a winter has lasted five years for me, and sometimes a lifetime has passed in the blink of an eye. Therefore, I might seek a branch to nest on and never fear the wind, because I have faith in flying.

Despite all the hopes I outlined in the texts above, a shadow of despair is gradually settling over me. Inspired by the Cyrus Cylinder, Martin Luther King Jr., Oskar Schindler, and Jesus Christ since 2015, and focusing on world history and human interactions, I embarked on a journey to realize the lofty goal of 'global peace'. Along with my friends and sometimes with people we encountered by chance, as peace-loving and anti-war activists, we connected with powerful world leaders and called on them to pursue peace and unity.

The 'Third Eye' movement, which invites humanity towards a deep and realistic insight and promises lasting peace, has been active for about a decade, organizing six global tours and visiting 20 different countries, standing in front of war memorials, parliaments, and other important global centers.

Now, as the rumblings of World War III echo in my ears, I find myself with a stronger motivation to stop this journey. Does human deserve anything more than love, peace, and human dignity? After years of effort and interaction with people from all over the world, I firmly answer 'no' to this question. But how can we make the loud voice of the people heard by world leaders?

With over 1,400 rooms, Schönbrunn Palace is not only one of Europe's largest palaces but also a true gem in the crown of the Habsburg Empire. This magnificent building, once the residence of emperors, continues to captivate visitors with its grandeur and splendor.

Franz Joseph I, the renowned emperor, was born in this very palace. Its walls have witnessed countless historical moments and hold untold stories. Beneath the palace lies a hidden world; a complex network of tunnels and chambers that once formed the beating heart of the palace. This intricate design has inspired countless puzzles and games.

Schönbrunn is more than just a palace; it's a living museum of history, art, and architecture. The musical prodigy Mozart performed in these very halls as a child. The palace's Baroque architecture, with its exquisite details, has inspired countless artists and architects. So much so that even Adolf Hitler, captivated by its beauty, sketched a picture of it.

Strolling through the vast and lush gardens of Schönbrunn and exploring its opulent rooms is like taking a journey through time; a journey to the era of empires and grandeur.

Albertinaplatz: Part 2

In my travels, I often have a strange calmness, I don't know if I'm happy or sad. Just like the calm of a soldier at the end of a war when smoke is still rising everywhere. From the beginning of my life, it seemed to me that I was experiencing feelings that could not be shared with others, this was the basis of my journeys.

Sometimes I may want to stare at the light shining on a wall for a long time; The type of light radiation, the angles and the colors created from it can dazzle me for a long time. I may watch from a window for a long time with pieces of Chopin. I may hate a city for a small incident, or conversely, I may want to live there.

Vienna was different for me. Everywhere reminded me of the history of Vienna, the romances I had read, or the movies I had watched. I was reminded of the movie Before Sunrise 1995, to be honest, I wanted to experience a story similar to the first person of the movie. In the end, I was left with only one photo at the Albertinaplatz location.

These are my last moments in Vienna.