Embassy of Austria, London facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Embassy of Austria in London |
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| Location | Belgravia, London |
| Address | 18 Belgrave Mews West, London, SW1X 8HU |
| Coordinates | 51°29′54.6″N 0°9′16.9″W / 51.498500°N 0.154694°W |
| Ambassador | Martin Eichtinger |
The Embassy of Austria in London is like Austria's main office in the United Kingdom. It's where Austrian representatives work to help their country and its citizens. They also work to keep good relationships between Austria and the UK.
Austria has other offices in London too. There's a Commercial Section that helps with business and trade. There's also a Cultural Section that shares Austrian art, music, and traditions.
Contents
A Look Back: The Embassy's History
Early Days: Austrian Representatives in London
Austria has had people representing its government in London for a very long time. This started way back in 1677. At first, it was a smaller group of representatives. But in 1860, it became a full embassy for the Austrian Empire.
Moving to Belgravia
The embassy used to be in a place called Chandos House. But in 1866, it moved to Belgravia. This building is special because it's the only one that the Austrian government still uses today. It was used by the Austro-Hungarian Foreign Service in the past.
World Wars and Changes
During World War I, Austria and Britain stopped their official talks. Because of this, the embassy building was looked after by other countries. First, the United States helped, then Sweden.
After the war ended, the building went back to the new country of Austria. For a while, there was a disagreement with Hungary about who owned the building. This was finally sorted out in 1934.
Later, in 1938, Austria joined Nazi Germany. The embassy building was then used as a German office. When World War II started, the Swiss government looked after it.
After the second war, the building was used for a short time by a British government department. But in 1949, Austria got its embassy back. It has been there ever since!
Gallery
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Plaque outside the embassy in German showing the Coat of arms of Austria
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The home of the Ambassador at 18 Belgrave Square
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The Austrian Embassy at 18 Belgrave Mews West
Images for kids
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Plaque outside the residence of the ambassador
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Austrian Cultural Forum London at 28 Rutland Gate
