Austin’s Backyard Fortress: The Cathedral of Junk

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Cathedral of Junk Austin Texas

A literal tower of memories hidden in a quiet Austin suburb.

The Backstory

In a quiet residential neighborhood in South Austin, tucked behind an unassuming small house, sits a three-story cathedral. It isn't made of stone or stained glass, but of lawnmower parts, car bumpers, circuit boards, and thousands of bicycle wheels. This is the Cathedral of Junk, a living sculpture started in 1988 by Vince Hannemann, better known to locals as the "Junk King."

Vince didn't set out to build a tourist destination; he simply started building because he liked it. Over the decades, the structure has grown to contain an estimated 60 tons of "junk." It survived a major legal battle with the city in 2010 when building inspectors threatened to tear it down. Thanks to a massive outpouring of support from the community and a team of engineers who helped Vince bring it up to code, the Cathedral stood its ground and remains one of the few authentic pieces of "Old Austin" left.

📍 At a Glance

  • Location: 4422 Lareina Dr, Austin, TX 78745
  • Region: Central Texas
  • Typical Timeframe: 1 hour
  • Admission: Small donation requested (Appointment required)

Exploring the Layers

Walking into the Cathedral feels like entering a kaleidoscope. It’s remarkably sturdy, with staircases leading to upper lofts and "rooms" dedicated to specific types of objects. There is a "Telephone Room," a wall of clocks, and even a "Throne" where visitors can sit and view the sprawling mess of creativity from above. Because it is partially overgrown with vines, the Cathedral changes with the seasons, feeling like a natural part of the backyard forest.

The beauty of this place is the nostalgia. You’ll find toys from your childhood, old technology you haven't seen in years, and signs from businesses that have long since closed. It’s a physical archive of the last 40 years of American consumerism, rearranged into something beautiful and strangely spiritual.

Our Pro-Tip

Do not just show up. This is Vince’s private backyard. You must call ahead to make an appointment (his number is usually listed on his Facebook page or Google Maps). Vince is a great guy but values his privacy and his neighbors' peace. Also, bring a few dollars for a donation—it helps him keep the lights on (literally, there are neon signs built into the walls) and pays for the ongoing maintenance of this massive folk-art monument.

Note: Wear closed-toe shoes. While it is structurally sound, there is a lot of metal and wire in the structure, so it's best to keep your feet protected as you climb the "junk" stairs.

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