Theophil Hansen's 1883 Parliament building is the most theatrical of the Ringstrasse public buildings — a vast Greek Revival temple complete with a statue of Pallas Athene in front, in deliberate homage to the cradle of democracy. The interior was extensively renovated between 2017 and 2022.
Free guided tours are offered when parliament is not sitting, including a walk through the chambers, the central column hall, and the historic library. The fountain of Athena with attendant river gods is a popular meeting point.