The big interview

“Mausi” Lugner: “His death is really a mystery”

The construction tycoon died on August 12 - ex-wife Christina will act as family spokesperson.(Bild: Krone KREATIV/Mausi: Conny Bischofberger Er: Reinhard Holl)

She was the dazzling woman at Richard Lugner's side for 17 years. Christina "Mausi" Lugner talks to Conny Bischofberger about her crazy life, his unexpected death and how the Lugners, who were always held together by "Mörtel", will continue without the head of the family.

On the terrace of the "Strandcafé" on the Old Danube, a table is set just for them. White flowers, still and sparkling mineral water, handkerchiefs. "Richard felt very, very comfortable here," says Christina Lugner, dabbing tears from her face. "On May 3, two years ago, we had the last international Lugner meeting at this location. All the Lugners from all over the world came together here."

Lugner's ex-wife also appeared in front of the television cameras one day after the master builder's death in front of the same backdrop to express her gratitude for the great sympathy. "You can't imagine what's going on in Lugner City. Children bring home-made gifts, people light candles, the stage is a sea of flowers and all the employees are also in mourning."

During the interview in the "Strandcafé" on the Old Danube: "Mausi" keeps dabbing tears from her face.(Bild: Conny Bischofberger)

"Mausi" wears a six-strand pearl necklace with a black lace dress, a Bulgari bracelet sparkles on her wrist. Every now and then a boat docks and you can hear the water lapping.

"Krone": Ms. Lugner, you appeared as the family spokesperson last Tuesday. How is the Lugner family doing?