Hofburg Vienna (Vienna, Austria)
Hofburg Vienna
The Hofburg was the residence of the Habsburgs in Vienna from the 13th century until the end of Austrias monarchy. It is the largest building complex in Europe that was not built for religious purposes.
The Hofburg Vienna is the former imperial residence of the Habsburgs, which had an important role in Austria’s and Europe’s history. The entire building complex of the Hofburg was built between the 13th and 19th century.
The building activity, which lasted for six centuries, had a strong impact on the appearance of the building. All architectural styles from Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque to the classicism of the Wilhelminian era can be recognized in various parts of the Hofburg.
Up until 1918 the Hofburg was the residence of the Habsburgs who controlled the fate of Austrian and European history here from the 13th century. Almost every regent had parts added, redesigned or newly furnished for himself and his family.
Starting from a medieval, fortified castle, a monumental government building grew over the centuries on an area of approx. 24 hectares. Its core, the old castle, has been preserved to this day.
The Vienna Hofburg today consists of 18 wings, 19 courtyards and 2,600 rooms. If you also include the museums, the old stables and the Volksgarten, you get a total area of approx. 50 hectares.
Around 5000 people still live or work here and around 20 million people visit the Hofburg in Vienna every year.
Today the Hofburg in Vienna serves as the official seat of the President of Austria.
The buildings also house various museums, most of the Austrian National Library and the Federal Monuments Office. Hundreds of events take place in the premises of the Hofburg every year. From congresses, meetings and trade fairs to balls, banquets and concerts.
The Vienna Hofburg Orchestra has played regularly in the magnificent halls of the Hofburg since 1971. Its declared aim is to cultivate Viennese waltz and operetta music and make it accessible to the world.