Ritz-Carlton Hotels has announced plans to continue its global expansion with its first hotel in the Austrian capital of Vienna.

The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna is owned by an investor represented by Verny Capital, which earlier this year also completed the acquisition of The Ritz-Carlton, Moscow.

“We are delighted that The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company will be entering the Austrian market in association with us,” said Timur Issatayev of Verny Capital.

“Our selection of The Ritz-Carlton is based on a very strict assessment of the company’s renowned stature in the hospitality industry and our existing relationship with them.”

The 202-room hotel is located on Schubertring, the historic and famous site of numerous monumental buildings built during 1860 to 1890.

Home of the Vienna State Opera and the Museum of Fine Arts, Vienna is well known for its essential role as a leading European Classical Music Centre.

The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna is located in two 19th century palaces which are listed as culturally protected properties in Austria.

The location is among the most desirable locations in the city for a luxury hotel.

“We are honoured to have been selected by Verny Capital to assume management of this incredible hotel,” said Herve Humler, president and chief operating officer, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company.

“We have viewed many sites in Vienna over the years and believe this location will offer our sophisticated travellers an exciting new place to explore and enjoy.

“The Ringstrasse, as it is known, encircles the old city of Vienna.

“Constructed in the late 19th century this prime location, combined with the exemplary service for which The Ritz-Carlton is known, will produce memorable stays for all our guests when it opens in the second quarter of 2012.