Löwenherz Claimed

Löwenherz is one of Europe’s most established LGBTQ+ bookshops and a cornerstone of Vienna’s queer cultural life. Founded in 1993, the independent bookstore has grown from a small specialist shop into a trusted destination for readers seeking gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender literature from around the world.

Located in Vienna’s Alsergrund district, Löwenherz offers a carefully curated selection of more than 12,000 titles, ranging from contemporary queer fiction and non-fiction to history, theory, biography and youth literature. The shop places equal emphasis on gay and lesbian voices and has long expanded its scope to include trans, bi and queer perspectives, making it a genuinely inclusive space.

Beyond books, Löwenherz stocks international magazines, DVDs, music and a range of LGBTQ+ accessories, including pins, stickers and pride flags. Customers can also request hard-to-find or out-of-print titles, with staff experienced in sourcing specialist publications from across Europe and beyond.

Löwenherz is more than a retail space. It has played an active role in Vienna’s LGBTQ+ community for decades, supporting local initiatives and hosting readings, talks and cultural events in collaboration with community organisations. For visitors, it’s a welcoming place to explore queer culture and get local recommendations; for locals, it remains a vital meeting point and cultural hub.