The letters "AEIOU" can be found scattered throughout Vienna, etched in stone, engraved on buildings, and inscribed in art. But what do they mean? In this episode, we unravel the mystery behind these enigmatic letters that have puzzled historians and locals alike for centuries. These seemingly simple vowels are linked to grand ambitions of world domination and the Habsburgs' intricate political strategies. Join us as we explore the fascinating history and myriad interpretations of "AEIOU", from the Middle Ages until today.

Ten years ago, Conchita Wurst took the Eurovision stage by storm, redefining glamour and shattering boundaries. Join us as Carmen pretends to be a Eurovision aficionado while Stephen rolls his eyes. Together, they reminisce about the hotel in Istanbul they stayed at during Conchita's win, and how much it smelled like cat. And that's not all: get ready to do your morning workouts with Conchita! Yes, you read that right. Tune in to find out how you can sweat it out with one of Eurovision's most iconic winners.

For more, check us out on social medias at viennapastandpresent or at viennapastandpresent.com. Reach out to us at viennapastandpresent@gmail. We love hearing feedback and ideas. Danke!

https://www.wursttv.com/

Russian Politicians Slam 'Bearded Lady' Conchita Wurst's Eurovision Win (billboard.com)

Conchita Wurst (@conchitawurst) • Instagram photos and videos

Before Vienna had public toilets, masked figures roamed the streets with poop buckets. Yes, you heard that right. It wasn't until the 1880s that the city saw its first public toilet, a milestone met with both relief and controversy. The church, ever vigilant, worried these new facilities would become dens of sin. And let's not forget Stephen, who shares his shameful yet hilarious experience with us. So, how did Vienna go from poop buckets to modern public conveniences? Join us as we dive into the bowels of this history, and explore the world's oldest underground toilet.

For more, check us out on social medias at viennapastandpresent or at viennapastandpresent.com. Reach out to us at viennapastandpresent@gmail. We love hearing feedback and ideas. Danke!

Links

https://www.geschichtewiki.wien.gv.at/%C3%96ffentliche_Bed%C3%BCrfnisanstalten

https://www.architektenlexikon.at/de/33.htm

https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C3%96ffentliche_Bed%C3%BCrfnisanstalt_am_Graben

https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abtrittanbieter

https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wilhelm_Beetz_(Bauunternehmer)

https://finanzbildung.oenb.at/docroot/waehrungsrechner/#/

https://der.orf.at/unternehmen/aktuell/pk_wiener_moderne100.html#:~:text=Die%20Wiener%20Moderne%2C%20die%20Zeit,%2C%20Literatur%2C%20Musik%20und%20Geisteswissenschaften.

https://www.sagen.at/doku/Wien_Beetz/Beetz_Wien.html

San Francisco Tried to Build a $1.7 Million Toilet. It's Still Not Done. - The New York Times (nytimes.com)

Most of us had Pez dispensers when we were growing up. Even if you think you didn't, you will later remember that you did-- just ask Carmen.

But did you know it's an Austrian story? From it's humble beginnings as an anti-smoking mint to the subject of a minor international scandal-- and a charming Netflix documentary-- we'll tackle the whole story of this ubiquitous, unassuming little candy.

For more, check us out on social medias at viennapastandpresent or at viennapastandpresent.com. Reach out to us at viennapastandpresent@gmail. We love hearing feedback and ideas. Danke!

When's the last time your city elections required papal intervention? Stumped? Well in Vienna's case, it was the 1897 election of Dr Karl Lueger, a consequential, controversial figure that left an impact on the city in ways both seen and unseen. Why did Emporer Franz Josef refuse to confirm his election 3 times? And how does Carmen review the church frescos that supposedly contain his face? This 19th century political story sounds strikingly familiar today.

For more, check us out on social medias at viennapastandpresent or at viennapastandpresent.com. Reach out to us at viennapastandpresent@gmail. We love hearing feedback and ideas. Danke!