The heart of the city beats in the shadow of the the vaulted roof of the magnificent St Stephens cathedral, whose eight centuries of existent recount the splendour and darker days of this imperial capital. The huge spire and its roof with its shimmering colours dominate this historic district popular with shoppers and tourists and always full of life. Stephansplatz is a crossroads where the Viennese lead their daily lives and relax at the weekend.