Schonbrunn Palace

  This 1441 room summer palace of the Hapsburgs ( it's name meaning "beautiful spring" after an artesian well on the grounds) is largely in the original condition as when it was completed in 1743 under the direction of Empress Maria Theresa. The property, with a small mansion on the grounds, was purchased in 1559 by Holy Roman Emperor Maximzillion II and was to be used for hunting. Between 1638-1643 a palace was added to the existing mansion. This all was given to Emperess Maria Theresa in the early 1740's as a wedding gift. The newly formed Austria Republic assumed responsibility for the property in 1918, turning it into one of the most popular tourist attractions in Austria. The Palace was used for a meeting between American President John F. Kennedy and Russian President Nikita Kruschev in 1961.

The front entrance to this massive complex.

The back side facing the gardens seemed more elegant than the front entrance.

Many of the rooms were divided into "apartments" for the various family members living there. This was part of Maria Theresa's apartment.

Called the "Millions Room" because of the cost of the rare rosewood paneling ornamented with gilt carvings, was used as Maria Theresa's private salon.

This flowery room was designed to give a sense of being outdoors, especially during bad weather. The large ceramic piece in the corner was a fireplace for heating the room.

In addition to the expansive garden at the back of the Palace, is this exquisite (and massive) fountain.

The Palm House, built in 1881, measures 113 meters in length and contains three different climatic zones for growing various plants and trees.

Among the many gardens making up this complex is this maze hedge garden.

Constructed in 1750, this Columbary (aviary) was designed to house special doves/pigeons.