Vienna Imperial Palace

Habsburg imperial residence in Vienna

History of the Hofburg

Vienna's Hofburg is one of the largest palace complexes in the world with 19 courtyards and 18 building wings. The first elements of the building were erected as early as the 13th century, but the Hofburg was not completed until the 20th century. From the 19th century, the majestic building was owned by the Habsburgs and served as their seat of government.

This palace complex passed through numerous eras of Austrian history and can bear witness to many historical events. Here, the emperor Joseph II. designed his reform programme, the Congress of Vienna met and the today most famous Austrian emperor couple had their residence at the Hofburg. Emperor Franz Joseph and his wife Elisabeth, of whom today's Sissi films tell stories, once lived here. Today, various museums are located on the grounds of the Hofburg. It serves as the seat of the Austrian Federal President and houses the Spanish Riding School as well as a congress centre.

Visiting the Hofburg

Those who want to visit the Hofburg can look forward to several highlights of this sight. In addition to the Sissi Museum, the imperial apartments and the Silver Chamber can be visited.

The Sissi Museum serves as an original testimony of the life of the empress Elisabeth, who is known beyond the national borders. Away from the staging by the films about the head of state, which shaped the myth of the empress in the first place, one can get a picture of her actual life, her coronation and her death here. Among the original exhibits are dresses, her first-aid kit, her collection of games and many other objects.

The private living quarters of Emperor Franz and Empress Elisabeth can be viewed by visitors in the Imperial Apartments. In addition to the bedroom, the gymnasium and toilet room and many rooms used for administration or representation can be viewed.

The so-called Silver Chamber contains an extensive collection of the court's former holdings of silverware. On display are glass, silver porcelain and various cooking and baking instruments.