The famous Palace of Fertile is the oldest and the most beautiful part of Vienna's first district in the heart of the city. Young architect Heinrich von Ferstel created this Palace between 1856 and 1860, being impressed from a long trip to Italy. The unique combination of Venetian and Florentine architecture with classical ashlar stone, made this building one of the greatest and most interesting in Vienna. At the time of its opening in 1860, the Palace of Ferstel was one of the most modern buildings in Vienna. It housed the stock exchange, which has rented space on the ground floor of the Palace of Fertile. The Austro-Hungarian national Bank also had its headquarters in this house.

Shortly after moving to the stock exchange in 1877, on the ground floor offer the famous café Central. The cafe becomes a meeting place for scientists and artists, "Centralisten", as the regulars like to call themselves. Sigmund Freud, Leon Trotsky, and many others often spend time here. Author and regular guest Peter Altenberg lives so close to the cafe that he gives all his address for receiving correspondence. Peter uses "Central" as their workplace, living and lounge areas. Even today the statue is life-size at the entrance reminds us of this famous guest.

During the Second world war the Palace of Fertile suffered greatly, and café Central was used as a warehouse. Reconstruction of the building began only in 1978. Only 8 years later, in 1986, the world-famous cafe again opened its doors to the public.

In 2010, the Palace of Fertile celebrated its 150th anniversary. Currently part of the premises used for banquets and concerts, in the rest of the building is a cafe, antique shops and a chocolate shop.