Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace is the most popular tourist destination in Austria. Under the reign of Emperor Maximilian The Second, in 1559 the Habsburg Dynasty acquired the former Meierhof outside the city border as a hunting ground.

Emperor Karl The fourth extended the palace but it was Empress Maria Theresia who had the famous building completed in Rococo style, as we see it today with a large ceremonial courtyard, and monumental steps that lead out to the gardens. A chapel, theatre, stables and housing for the magnificent royal coaches were also included.

Wonderful green areas, such as the Crown Prince Garden on the east side of the main building, are among the oldest sections of the surrounding park.

In the Walnut Room, Emperor Franz Joseph received his generals, ministers and court officials. His bedroom appears rather modest, despite its rococo ornaments and numerous paintings of his family, and includes a painting of his deathbed. Close by is the bedroom of Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth, known affectionately today as Sissi.

Schönbrunn Zoo is the oldest existing zoo in the world, which was later supplemented by exotic animals collected from expeditions to faraway lands.

Schönbrunn Palace highlights the glory of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy, magnificent landmark and symbol of an empire now gone.