Schönbrunn Palace is a baroque-style palace located in Vienna, Austria. It was initially a hunting lodge for the Habsburg dynasty but was expanded and transformed into a castle in the mid-18th century by Empress Maria Theresa. The palace has a rich history, serving as the summer residence of the Habsburgs and as the site of important political events such as the Congress of Vienna in 1815. Today, Schönbrunn Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most visited attractions in Austria. Let's delve into the glorious history of this exquisite palace and understand why this is a must-visit destination that deserves a spot in your Vienna itinerary.

What Is Schönbrunn Palace Vienna?

Schönbrunn Palace is an extraordinary architectural masterpiece located in Vienna, Austria. This grand palace was initially built in the 16th century as a hunting lodge for the Habsburg dynasty but was later expanded and transformed into an elegant palace in the 18th century under Empress Maria Theresa. The palace served as a summer residence for the Habsburgs and was a centre of political and cultural life in Austria.

It is renowned for its stunning architecture and ornate interiors. The palace features 1,441 rooms, each uniquely designed with elaborate decoration and furnishings. Visitors can take guided tours of the palace to admire the grandeur of the imperial apartments, the luxurious staterooms, and the impressive Hall of Mirrors, among other remarkable spaces. It also boasts magnificent gardens, including the Great Parterre, the oldest and largest parterre in the world, and the famous Neptune Fountain.

Schönbrunn Palace is an exceptional example of European baroque architecture and a testament to Austria's rich history and cultural heritage, making it one of the most famous attractions in Vienna.

Timeline of Schönbrunn Palace Vienna

1569: Emperor Maximilian II builds a small hunting lodge on the site of what will become Schönbrunn Palace.
1696: Leopold I commissions architect Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach to design a new palace at Schönbrunn.
1742-Late 1770s: Empress Maria Theresa orders extensive renovations and expansions to the palace, turning it into a grand summer residence for the Habsburg dynasty.
1765: Emperor Franz I Stephan dies at Schönbrunn, making it a centre of mourning and funeral ceremonies.
1815: The Congress of Vienna takes place at Schönbrunn Palace.
1830: Emperor Franz Joseph I is born at Schönbrunn Palace and spent much of his childhood there.
1918: The Habsburg dynasty falls with the end of World War I, and Schönbrunn Palace becomes state property.
1996: Schönbrunn Palace is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Schönbrunn Palace History Explained

Construction of Hunting Lodge (1569)

The history of Schönbrunn Palace dates back to 1569 when Emperor Maximilian II of the Habsburg dynasty built a small hunting lodge on a hillside outside of Vienna. This lodge was intended as a place for the emperor to relax and hunt game but would soon become the grand Schönbrunn Palace we see today.

Schönbrunn Palace Construction (1696)

In the late 17th century, Emperor Leopold I decided to build a grand palace at Schönbrunn to replace the old hunting lodge. He commissioned renowned architect Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach to design the castle. However, Leopold, I died before the palace could be completed, and his successor, Joseph I, did not show much interest in furthering the project.

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Expansion of the Schönbrunn Palace (1742-Late 1770s)

When Empress Maria Theresa took over the reign in the mid-18th century, Schönbrunn Palace was transformed into the grand summer residence. She ordered extensive renovations and expansions to the palace, including constructing the elegant central wing, the magnificent gardens, and many interior decorations and furnishings.

Schönbrunn Palace turns into a Center of Mourning (1765)

In 1765, Maria Theresa's husband, Emperor Franz I Stephan, died at Schönbrunn Palace. His demise was a significant event in the history of the Habsburg dynasty, and the palace transformed into a centre of mourning and funeral ceremonies.

Congress of Vienna in Schönbrunn Palace (1814-1815)

In 1815, after the defeat of Napoleon, the Congress of Vienna was held at Schönbrunn Palace for the first time. This essential international gathering brought together the rulers of many European nations to negotiate a settlement that would restore stability to the continent after the upheavals of the Napoleonic Wars.

Birth of Emperor Franz Joseph I (1830)

Emperor Franz Joseph I, one of the most famous Habsburg rulers, was born at Schönbrunn Palace in 1830. The room where Franz Joseph was born is named the Birth Room and is situated in the palace's west wing. The room is preserved as it was when Franz Joseph's birth took place and contains many original furnishings and decorations.

Fall of Hapsburg Dynasty (1918)

Right before World War I came to an end, the dissolution of the Habsburg dynasty took place. It also brought along the transformation of Austria into a republic. Thus, Schönbrunn Palace became state property and was opened to the public.

Schönbrunn Palace became a World Heritage Site (1996)

In 1996, the Schönbrunn Palace was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This designation recognizes the palace's outstanding cultural and historical value and its exceptional Rococo and Baroque style architecture and landscape design.

The Architecture of Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna

The Schönbrunn Palace is a stunning example of Baroque and Rococo architecture. The palace was built in the 18th century, and its design reflects the grandeur and luxury of the Habsburg Empire.

The palace's exterior features a symmetrical design with numerous ornate details. The facade is adorned with classical motifs such as columns, pilasters, and pediments. The castle also features a large central dome, multiple smaller domes, and cupolas. Inside, the palace is just as impressive. The interior is richly decorated with frescoes, stucco work, and intricate wood carvings. The rooms are furnished with luxurious fabrics, ornate furniture, and exquisite artwork.

Overall, the design and decoration of the palace reflect the wealth, power, and sophistication of the Habsburg Empire.

Book Tickets To Schönbrunn Palace Vienna

Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

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Combo (Save 9%): Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour + Schönbrunn Zoo Skip-the-Line Tickets

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Schönbrunn Palace: Mozart & Strauss Concert

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Combo: Vienna Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour + Schönbrunn Palace & Belvedere Palace Tickets

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Schönbrunn Palace: Mozart & Strauss Concert & After-Hours Tour

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Frequently Asked Questions About Schönbrunn Palace History

Q. How old is Schönbrunn Palace Vienna?

A. The construction of Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna began in 1696 and concluded in 1749, making it over 270 years old as of 2023.

Q. Why is Schönbrunn Palace Vienna famous?

A. Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna is famous for its stunning Baroque and Rococo architecture, its historical significance as the summer residence of the Habsburgs, and its beautiful gardens and parklands.

Q. Where is Schönbrunn Palace Vienna?

A. Schönbrunn Palace is located in Vienna, the capital city of Austria. It's situated in the western part of the city, in the district of Hietzing. The official address is Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Wien, Austria. Find it here on Maps.

Q. Who built Schönbrunn Palace Vienna?

A. Schönbrunn Palace was built by various architects and designers over the 18th century, including Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach, Nikolaus Pacassi, and Johann Ferdinand Hetzendorf von Hohenberg, under the direction of Emperor Leopold I of the Holy Roman Empire.

Q. What is the architectural style of Schönbrunn Palace Vienna?

A. Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna is a stunning example of Baroque and Rococo architecture. The palace's exterior features classical motifs, while the interior is richly decorated with frescoes, stucco work, and intricate wood carvings.

Q. How much does it cost to visit Schönbrunn Palace Vienna?

A. The entry tickets to Schönbrunn Palace start from €48. You can also experience classical concerts at the palace, although the price of such tickets may be higher. Explore all the types of tickets available and make your choice here.

Q. Are there guided tours explaining Schönbrunn Palace's history?

A. Yes, there indeed are guided tours of Schönbrunn Palace that will offer you an extensive and profound insight into the site's history. These guided tours are available in English, Spanish and German.

Q. Are there any virtual tours of Schönbrunn Palace Vienna?

A. Yes, you can also purchase a virtual tour ticket to Schönbrunn Palace Vienna for a low price of €19.90. This virtual tour is of 24 minutes and will completely immerse you in the culture and history of the palace via its 360° point of view, sharp audio quality, 4K resolution and state-of-the-art VR technology. Available in 19 different languages!

Q. What are some interesting facts about the Schönbrunn Palace Vienna?

A. Schönbrunn Palace has 1,441 rooms, including numerous grand halls, ballrooms, and private apartments. The Great Gallery of Schönbrunn Palace also saw a six-year-old Mozart perform for Empress Maria Theresa. Moreover, The palace has been featured in several movies, including the classic Sissi trilogy about Empress Elisabeth of Austria.

Is it worth visiting Schönbrunn Palace Vienna?

Yes, Schönbrunn Palace is worth a visit. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vienna and offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the Habsburg Empire. Buy your tickets here!