Hofburg

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The Vienna Hofburg: From imperial center to the political and cultural heart of Austria

The Hofburg Palace in Vienna is a place steeped in history, power, and splendor. For many centuries, it served as the residence of the Habsburgs and was continually expanded. Today, the vast grounds house the official residence of the Austrian Federal President as well as numerous museums and institutions of international renown. However, many of the magnificent rooms are not open to the public – this article provides a clear overview of the publicly accessible sights and those areas used exclusively for official functions and events.

Short info:

Where is it located? Inner Burghof, 1010 Vienna
What is it used for today? Presidential Chancellery, museums, events, cultural institutions
Is it open to the public? Yes, many parts – others only on special occasions or guided tours
How old is the Hofburg? Origins in the 13th century, continuously expanded until the 20th century
Who resides there today? The Federal President of the Republic of Austria in the Leopoldine Wing

History of the Hofburg

The Hofburg's architectural history dates back to the 13th century. Originally built as a medieval castle, it was continuously expanded under the Habsburgs. For over 600 years, it was the political center of power of the Holy Roman Empire and the Danube Monarchy. After the end of the monarchy in 1918, the Hofburg became state property. Since 1946, the official residence of the Austrian Federal President has been located in the Leopoldine Wing of the Hofburg.

Publicly accessible facilities within the Hofburg

These sights are located within or directly adjacent to the Hofburg and are open to visitors all year round: are located within or directly adjacent to the Hofburg and are open to visitors all year round:

Weltmuseum Vienna – Ethnological Museum with world-renowned collections, including Montezuma’s famous feather headdress.
Spanish Riding School – Historical institution of classical equestrian art with Lipizzaners, regular guided tours and demonstrations in the baroque riding hall.
Imperial Apartments, Sisi Museum & Silver Chamber – living quarters of Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth, complemented by personal objects and court silverware.
Austrian National Library (State Hall) – Magnificent baroque library hall with ceiling paintings and historical book collections.
House of Austrian History – Exhibition on Austrian contemporary history, also housed in the New Hofburg.
Augustinian Church – Court church of the Habsburgs, venue for weddings and important masses.
Papyrus Museum – Collection of ancient texts and documents from Egypt, part of the National Library.
Imperial Treasury – Presents the imperial regalia, crown jewels and religious treasures of the Holy Roman Empire.
Court Hunting and Armory – Exhibition of historical weapons, armor and ceremonial objects.
Collection of old musical instruments – Historical instruments, including pianos and organs.
Ephesus Museum – Ancient finds from the Turkish city of Ephesus.
Albertina – Important art museum with works by Dürer, Monet, Picasso and many more, historically connected to the Hofburg.
Palm House & Butterfly House – Art Nouveau greenhouse with tropical plants and live butterflies in the castle garden.
Michaelertor – One of the main gates to the Hofburg, with access to several museums and institutions.
Hofburg Chapel – Gothic chapel in the Swiss wing, known for the Sunday masses with the Vienna Boys’ Choir.

Only accessible during events or guided tours

A large part of the Hofburg remains closed to the public on a daily basis. These rooms are usually only accessible on special occasions or for exclusive tours:

Ceremonial Hall – Reserved for state receptions and official events.
Redoutensäle – Historic ballrooms are used for concerts, galas or official celebrations.
Ballroom (New Castle) – Large event hall, open only for events.
Spanish Hall, Privy Council Chamber, Garden Salon – State rooms with historical furnishings, accessible only during guided tours.
Presidential Wing (Leopoldinian Wing) – Official residence of the Federal President, accessible only on special occasions.

Note on image use

The photos shown in this article depict spaces that are not regularly accessible to the public. They were provided to us.
Under the respective links on 365Austria (see above) you will find detailed individual articles on all publicly accessible sights within the Hofburg.