Schönbrunn Palace began its life as a hunting ground for Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian II. Eleanora Gonzaga loved hunting there and spent much time at the palace. It was bequeathed to her as her widow’s residence. The present form of the palace took shape during the 1740s and 1750s during the reign of Empress Maria Theresa.
It was used as the summer residence in Vienna and was the site of many births and deaths. Isabella of Parma died there in 1763, shortly after giving birth to a short-lived daughter, Maria Christina. Maria Josepha of Bavaria also died there in 1767. The future Queen of France, Marie-Antoinette, spent part of her childhood there, and her sister, Maria Carolina of Austria, was born there. Basically, it’s filled with memories.
It’s open to the public, but unfortunately, photography is not allowed inside. The Palace is located at Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, and the entrance fee varies depending on combo tickets and tours. It’s expensive, so opt for the combo ticket if you’re also looking to visit the Hofburg Palace.

The gardens of Schönbrunn.

The Gloriette from a distance. The Gloriette is dedicated as a Monument to Just War, which leads to peace.

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