traveldk.com

Am Hof is dominated by the monument to the Virgin Mary that was cast in bronze by Balthasar Herold (1664–7). The base shows four angels fighting four animals which symbolize the four major catastrophes for humankind in the 17th century. The dragon stands for starvation, the lion for war, the fantastical Basilisk, for the plague, while heresy is symbolized by a snake.

Apricots are hidden inside curd cheese dumplings, covered in breadcrumbs then roasted in butter.

The puppet theatre in the little court theatre at Schönbrunn stages wonderful shows that are as much a delight for adults as for children. A version of Mozart’s The Magic Flute is the undisputed highlight of the programme, with a feather-clad Tamino and a spectacularly vicious snake.

The Marriott is within walking distance of all the famous landmarks. It has an indoor swimming pool and a health club where you can relax after a day’s sightseeing.

This day commemorates the Virgin Mary’s ascension to heaven.

On this day, Anna conceived a daughter, the Virgin Mary.

This beautiful stationery shop has everything from plain cards to celebrate any occasion to beautiful wrapping paper, decorated diaries and fountain pens. The ideal place for gifts.

Under this Renaissance ruler (1486–1519) all Habsburg lands were united and the arts and sciences flourished.

This historic house which is now home to the Mayer Heuriger was once the residence of the composer Ludwig van Beethoven (see p58). He spent the summer of 1817 here when he hoped to find relief for his continually worsening deafness. Today you can soak up the atmosphere with excellent food and home-produced wines – Mayer is an acclaimed winery and has won many national and international prizes. Traditional Viennese music is played every evening from 7pm.

The Basiliskenhaus is a fine example of a 13th-century home.