Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna

It is hard not to be excited and overwhelmed when you visit the glamorous and glorious Schönbrunn Palace. One of the enthralling palace complexes in whole Europe, Schönbrunn is the most popular attraction in Austria and a do-not-miss experience. The majestic Baroque Palace used to be the summer residence of the Habsburg emperors and their families since 1569 and until the end of the monarchy in 1918. It was Emperor Maximilian II who first used the property. But the significant change in Schönbrunn made only in the days of Emperor Leopold I that Schönbrunn was in his possession since 1686. Leopold I wish to build his son, Joseph, a proper residence. Partly, due to the siege of Vienna by the Turkish in 1863 which had an effect on Schönbrunn as well. Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach was chosen for the complicated task and the ambitious plan was launched in 1696. Nevertheless, it was Maria Theresa, daughter of Emperor Charles VI who received Schönbrunn as a gift, who had a major contribution on turning Schönbrunn into a political center and stately summer residence. With the help of the architect Nikolaus Pacassi, the Palace was greatly expanded from 1743 to 1749.

The Palace has an almost unbelievable number of rooms, in its glory days 1,441 rooms were built for the emperors' summer residence. Today, only 45 are open to the public, but even so, it is easy to enjoy the place's beauty and imagine its past opulence. Due to its history, architecture, and Rococo interiors design, Schönbrunn has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Except for the marvelous Palace, Schönbrunn includes a stunning park that is open to all since 1779. The park has outstanding gardens, with green lawns, beautiful flowers, and shading trees. The lovely statues, fountains, maze, and exceptional palm house also add to the park's splendor. At Schönbrunn you can also visit the Imperial Carriage Museum and a splendid zoo which is the oldest in the world. Also, do not miss the Gloriette, an exceptional building from 1775 which turns into a café that offers testy pastries and a panoramic view of Vienna.