Schonbrunn Palace

Schonbrunn Palace (Schloss Schönbrunn) in Vienna was in the possession of the Habsburg Dynasty from the 16th century to 1918, when it passed into the hands of the Austrian Republic. Originally known as Katterburg, it was renamed Schonbrunn in approximately 1642.

The land on which Schönbrunn Palace sits was purchased by the Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian II in 1569 and used as a hunting lodge and recreational venue before the buildings were destroyed as part of the Turkish siege of Vienna in 1683. Reconstruction of Schönbrunn Palace began in 1696 under the orders of Emperor Leopold I and was designed by architect Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach in a Baroque style.

Maria Theresa transformed Schönbrunn, both in terms of architecture and the palace’s stature. She spearheaded the renovation and extension of Schönbrunn, turning it into a palatial residence designed by architect Nikolaus Pacassi and making it a focal point of Austrian political and social life.

Schönbrunn Palace did undergo some renovation during the 19th century, including the removal of much of its Rococo façade and the repainting of its exterior to a color known as “Schönbrunn Yellow”. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Schonbrunn Palace and its magnificent gardens are one of the most beautiful historical sites in Austria and visitors can avail themselves of various themed guided tours or make use of free audio guides.