Belvedere Palace: Baroque masterpiece in Vienna
The Belvedere Palace in Vienna is one of the most impressive baroque buildings in Europe. In addition to its magnificent architecture and extensive gardens, it impresses with its art collections in the Upper Belvedere, including famous works by Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele. A visit offers a fascinating insight into art, culture and history.
Short info:
- Where is it located? address: Prinz Eugen-Straße 27, 1030 Vienna
- What is the Belvedere? A baroque palace containing world-famous works of art, including Gustav Klimt's "The Kiss".
- How much does the entrance fee cost? Here you can find all ticket prices. With the NÖ-Card the one-time visit is free.
- When is it open? Daily from 10:00 to 18:00. Here you will find all opening hours.
- What are the highlights? In addition to the building and the area itself, there are paintings by Gustav Klimt (including The Kiss), Egon Schiele, Oskar Kokoschka and Helene Funke.
Belvedere Palace is one of the most important baroque palaces in Europe and a cultural highlight in the Austrian capital. It was built at the beginning of the 18th century for Prince Eugene of Savoy, one of the most famous military commanders in Europe. Today, the palace is not only known for its magnificent architecture and extensive gardens, but also for its important role in Austrian history.
What is there to see in Belvedere Palace?
Inside the Belvedere Palace, visitors can expect an impressive collection of Austrian art, ranging from the Gothic period to the present day. In the Upper Belvedere, masterpieces by Gustav Klimt, such as his world-famous painting "The Kiss", as well as works by Egon Schiele and Oskar Kokoschka, can be admired. The permanent exhibition also shows highlights from the Baroque and Biedermeier periods, as well as important pieces of Viennese Art Nouveau. The artfully furnished state rooms, including the magnificent Marble Hall, not only offer an insight into Baroque architecture, but are also the place where the Austrian State Treaty was signed.
The History of the Castle
Belvedere Palace was built between 1714 and 1723 according to the plans of the architect Johann Lucas von Hildebrandt. Originally designed as a summer residence for Prince Eugene of Savoy, it was intended to reflect his fame and wealth. The building consists of two parts: the Upper and the Lower Belvedere, which are connected by magnificent French-style gardens. These gardens were designed as an expression of power and wealth and are among the most beautiful Baroque gardens in Europe.
The Austrian State Treaty
Belvedere Palace plays a central role not only in architecture but also in Austrian history. On May 15, 1955, the Austrian State Treaty was signed in the Marble Hall of the Upper Belvedere. With this historic signature, Austria regained its sovereignty after World War II and freed itself from Allied occupation. An iconic moment: Foreign Minister Leopold Figl presented the signed document from the balcony of the palace while the Austrian population cheered. This historic moment made the palace a national symbol.
Art in the Upper Belvedere
The Upper Belvedere now houses one of the most important art collections in Austria. Works by artists such as Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele and Oskar Kokoschka are exhibited here. Klimt's "The Kiss" is particularly famous and is perhaps Austria's most famous work of art. In addition to Klimt, the collection in the Upper Belvedere offers a comprehensive overview of Austrian art from the Middle Ages to the present day.
The Baroque Gardens
Between the two palaces there are extensive, baroque gardens in the French style, which are among the most beautiful of their kind. Symmetrical paths, artistic fountains and statues make the gardens a popular place for strolls. They offer visitors not only a retreat in the middle of Vienna, but also wonderful views of the city.
The Lower Belvedere
The Lower Belvedere It used to serve as a residence and place of representation for Prince Eugene. Today it hosts changing exhibitions and is an architectural highlight. Particularly worth seeing are the Marble Hall, the Golden Gallery and the Orangery, which impressively showcase the baroque splendor of times gone by.
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