Exhibition at HOERBIGER’s Vienna location brings 130 years of company history to life
Pioneered.
Pursued.
Prevailed.
HOERBIGER’s story began in 1895 with a groundbreaking invention. More than 130 years later, the new exhibition “Pioneered. Pursued. Prevailed. An Idea Goes Global” at the Christiana Hörbiger Forum in Vienna tells the story of how a technical innovation evolved into a global technology company, and of the people who shaped that journey.
In 1895, Hanns Hörbiger patented his frictionless steel plate valve. The invention played a key role in advancing compressor technology and laid the foundation for today’s HOERBIGER Group. From a single technical idea emerged a remarkable success story shaped by innovation, entrepreneurial courage, and long-term vision.
The exhibition brings this journey to life in an engaging and accessible way. Across 28 stations, visitors follow the path from the inventor’s ancestors and the early days of the family business through technological milestones, business successes, and ultimately a look into the future.
History told through objects and people
At the heart of the exhibition are selected artifacts, personal stories, and defining milestones in the company’s development. Together, they tell the story of technological breakthroughs, bold entrepreneurial decisions, and HOERBIGER’s international growth. At the same time, they highlight the people who have built, shaped, and advanced the company across generations.
The result is a rich and multifaceted picture of HOERBIGER’s history. It illustrates how the company has continuously evolved, embraced new opportunities, and adapted to changing times without losing sight of its roots. Innovation, entrepreneurial responsibility, and global presence provide the common thread throughout.
Heritage as a source of inspiration
The exhibition was initiated and funded by the HOERBIGER Foundation, owner of the HOERBIGER Group. As guardian of the family and company heritage, the Foundation is committed to preserving HOERBIGER’s history and making it accessible to future generations.
At the same time, the exhibition is more than a retrospective. It demonstrates how ideas become progress when people have the courage to challenge conventions and take responsibility for the future. In doing so, it offers inspiration and orientation for the company’s continued development.
The exhibition was conceived and realized by the HOERBIGER Archive in close collaboration with the Technical Museum Vienna, exhibition designer Stefanie Muther, and her team at Studio Welten.
Designed as a temporary exhibition, it will remain on display until at least spring 2027. External visitors are welcome to explore HOERBIGER’s history during regular office hours from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Admission is free.