Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna
Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, Austria is a Baroque palace and gardens that was the summer residence of the Habsburg monarchs from the 18th century to 1918. The palace was originally built on the site of a pleasure palace in 1642, but was destroyed during the Turkish siege of Vienna in 1683. Construction of a new palace began in 1696 and was completed under Maria Theresa after 1743. The palace is considered a masterpiece of Baroque architecture and a prime example of Gesamtkunstwerk, a fusion of many art forms. The Great Gallery is a Rococo interior with tall windows, crystal mirrors, and ceiling frescoes. The palace gardens are home to fountains, statues, and a labyrinth. The site was also home to the world’s first zoo in 1752. The palace and gardens were added to the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage list in 1996.
