Austria has produced many of the world's greatest composers during the late 1700's and early 1800's. Joseph Haydn made the symphony one of the highest forms of musical composition. Haydn and Mozart became the leading composers of the "classical period" of music. Later, Franz Schubert composed more than 600 songs. His "Ava Maria" is considered one of the most beautiful songs ever composed. In the late 1800's Johann Strauss and his son composed their famous waltzes.
		The architectural history of St. Stephen`s Cathedral begins in the 12th century. It is the most important Gothic edifice in Austria and houses a wealth of art treasures, some of which can only be seen during a guided tour.
		Austrian alps.