traveldk.com

The private apartments (Kaiserapartments ) in the Amalia Wing are preserved as they were in the day of Emperor Franz Joseph and his wife Elisabeth (see p15).

This Renaissance gatehas red-and-black marble columns and gold inscriptions. Its name refers to the Swiss guards employed by Empress Maria Theresa in the 18th century.

This collection of elaborate table decorations, serving bowls and other silverware is proof of the splendour that marked meals at the imperial court.

Magnificent artifacts are on display here, such as lavish monstrances. Sixteen rooms are dedicated to the gems and relics of both the Austrian and the Holy Roman Empires.

Although the original Gothic interior with carved statuary was altered by Maria Theresa, the chapel (Burgkapelle) remains one of the oldest parts of the palace. The atmosphere of former times can still be felt, where once composers such as Mozart gave musical performances.

The Baroque library was constructed by Josef Emanuel Fischer von Erlach from 1723–6. It is considered to be among the world’s finest, with invaluable historic manuscripts in walnut-wood bookcases.

Equestrian statues of Prince Eugen of Savoy and Archduke Charles dominate the large Heroes’ Square (Heldenplatz) , which was formerly a parade ground.

The semi-circular Neue Burg, with its vast colonnaded façade, is home to a collection of musical instruments as well as an assemblage of arms and armour. Also here are the Ethnological and the Ephesus Museums (see p14).

Both parks owe their origins to the Napoleonic troops who blew up parts of the palace in 1809 to make way for greenery.

The majestic semi-circular Michaeler Gate is the main entrance into the complex, and its imposing dome with golden decorations looms over Michaelerplatz.