A unique, rich history of excellence

1946

The Lycée Français de Vienne (LFV) was founded on 11 May 1946 by General Béthouart, then High Commissioner of the French Republic in Austria, in temporary premises.
From the day it opened, the school welcomed both girls and boys, Austrian and French pupils alike. It differed from other schools in that lessons were organised throughout the day and, in a context of food scarcity, it set up a school restaurant.

1947

In the context of occupied Vienna, an initial cultural agreement between the Republic of Austria and the Republic of France was signed on 15 March 1947.
This agreement defined the special status of the LFV and established a lasting legal basis for its operation and for the accreditation of studies pursued within the institution.

1952

A new agreement, signed on 22 February 1952 and entitled ‘relating to the Lycée Français de Vienne’, specifies the equivalent qualifications — in particular between the Matura and the Baccalauréat — as well as the distribution between Austrian and French teachings.
This text was updated several times (in 1960, 1962 and 1968) before being replaced by the agreement currently in force, signed on 27 January 1983, which incorporates its main guidelines.

1954

On 8 May 1954, the Lycée Français de Vienne moved into its current premises, then located within the grounds of the Palais Clam-Gallas park.

2017–2018

The new Building F and Studio Molière, designed by Dietmar Feichtinger Architectes (feichtingerarchitectes.com), were opened. 

2019

Opening of the new Studio Molière to the public and inauguration of the school's new entrance.
Project designed by Atelier Grell www.atelier-grell.at

80 years — something to celebrate… but above all, something to experience together.

April 30, 2026 will remain a deeply memorable day for the entire community of the Lycée Français de Vienne, which celebrated its 80th anniversary on that occasion. A radiant day, carried by an extraordinary collective energy.

In the presence of Mr. Frédéric Joureau, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. at the Embassy of France in Austria, Mr. Bruno Ducluzaux, COCAC, as well as students, teaching, administrative, educational and technical staff, parents, parent associations (APE Wien and UPEL), and the Friends of the LFV: everyone contributed to making this 80th anniversary celebration a moment of rare intensity.

Throughout the day, the lycée was alive with energy: in the courtyards, in the gymnasium, at the Studio Molière and its foyer, in the classrooms, around exhibitions, performances, games, meetings, and moments of sharing.

Everywhere, there was joy, commitment, kindness, and that precious feeling of belonging to a united community—especially when, all together, each of our 90 nationalities said in its own language:

"HAPPY 80TH ANNIVERSARY TO OUR SCHOOL!"

This day also provided an opportunity to reflect on the profound significance of our history. The Lycée Français de Vienne was founded in 1946, in a Europe ravaged by war, thanks to General Béthouard’s visionary determination to create a school as a place of reconstruction, hope and peace. Eighty years on, this mission remains as relevant as ever.

Today, 1,763 pupils of 90 nationalities are growing up together at the LFV. Fifty-two languages are spoken here. This diversity is not a challenge: it is our wealth, our strength and our pride.

At the LFV, we firmly believe that what unites a community is not uniformity, but respect, openness to others and the conviction that everyone has their place.

Thank you to everyone who brings this school to life every day with commitment, high standards and humanity. Thank you for this unforgettable day

Happy 80th anniversary, and long live the Lycée Français de Vienne!