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Belvedere Palace in Vienna
Belvedere Palace - One of the most important museums in Vienna
Belvedere Palace is a baroque jewel and a place of great historical and cultural significance. Once the residence of Prince Eugene and later the site of the Austrian State Treaty, it combines history with high-calibre art. The Upper Belvedere is home to the most important collection of Austrian art, from medieval painting to modern art. The highlights are the masterpieces of the Vienna Secession, above all Gustav Klimt's world-famous ‘Kiss’. The Lower Belvedere regularly hosts changing exhibitions that open up new perspectives on art and society. Whether on a tour or a guided tour, the Belvedere Palace in Vienna brings Austria's art history to life.
History of the Belvedere Palace in Vienna
Belvedere Palace is one of the most important sights in Vienna. Built between 1714 and 1723, it served as the summer residence of the successful general Prince Eugene of Savoy. The magnificent ensemble of the Upper and Lower Belvedere and the ornate garden reflect the power and aesthetics of the Baroque era.
After Prince Eugene's death, the palace became the property of the Habsburgs. The heir to the throne, Franz Ferdinand, whose assassination triggered the First World War, used it as his residence for a time. During the National Socialist era, Belvedere Palace was expropriated and used for propaganda purposes and integrated into the Nazi cultural system. Numerous works of art, including those owned by Jews, were transferred to the Belvedere in Vienna during this period, where they were confiscated or removed from storage.
A historic highlight was 15 May 1955, when the Austrian State Treaty was signed in the Marble Hall of the Upper Belvedere in Vienna. From the balcony of the Belvedere Palace in Vienna, Foreign Minister Leopold Figl announced to the assembled people in moving words: "Austria is free!
Gustav Klimt and art at Belvedere Palace
Step inside the mighty Belvedere Palace, one of Vienna's most beautiful sights, where art and history meet. After a visit to the Lower Belvedere, the tour continues in the Upper Belvedere with a tour of Austrian art from the Middle Ages to the present day.
The most famous highlight is the world-famous painting ‘The Kiss’ by Gustav Klimt. Klimt was the son of a gold engraver and became one of the most important artists of Viennese Art Nouveau. Many of his works are exhibited in the Upper Belvedere in Vienna and attract art-loving visitors from all over the world.
But the Belvedere in Vienna exhibits much more: works by Egon Schiele, Oskar Kokoschka, Ferdinand Georg Waldmüller and other well-known artists. In addition, there are always new special exhibitions in the Upper Belvedere Palace, for example on topics such as women in art, Austria in times of change or the role of art in society. A visit to the Belvedere Palace in Vienna is not just an experience for art lovers, but for anyone who wants to discover Austria's history and culture.
The Lower Belvedere in Vienna
The Lower Belvedere in Vienna was built at the beginning of the 18th century as a residence for Prince Eugene of Savoy. It is the older part of the baroque Belvedere palace complex and served the famous general not only as a residence, but also as a retreat for art, books and culture. The historic state rooms are still impressive today, including the magnificent Marble Hall, the richly decorated Gold Cabinet and the elegant Great Gallery.
Particularly exciting: Prince Eugene owned a private, well-hidden library here with thousands of valuable books, which was considered one of the most important collections in Europe in his time.
Today, the Lower Belvedere is used for temporary special exhibitions. In the former orangery and the baroque stables, international and Austrian artists show works from classical modernism to the present day. The exhibitions in one of Vienna's most important museums are not only dedicated to art history, but also to current socially relevant topics. A visit to the Lower Belvedere in Vienna is a wonderful complement to the famous Upper Belvedere.
Experience art on relaxed, cosy autumn days
Enjoy the last days of autumn with a city trip to Vienna and do not miss out on the many impressive art exhibitions at the Belvedere Palace, especially the Gustav Klimt display/section. On rainy days, not only the Belvedere Palace but also the Albertina and the Kunsthistorisches Museum (Art History Museum) draw many visitors to see their fascinating and memorable exhibits.
Central accommodation in Vienna
Hotel Stefanie is located in the centre of Vienna and benefits from its proximity to the city's major tourist attractions. Vienna's oldest hotel is the perfect starting point for exploring the artistic traditions and rich cultural history of Austria. Book your accommodation in the metropolis on the banks of the Danube today.
