The history of Belvedere Palace begins with Prince Eugene of Savoy, one of the most successful military commanders in the history of Imperial Austria. In 1697, the prince purchased a large plot of land outside the city walls to build a summer residence, commissioning the renowned Baroque architect Johann Lukas von Hildebrandt for the project. The result was a magnificent architectural ensemble that would become a landmark of Vienna.

Prince Eugene's Summer Residence

The complex was constructed in two main phases, resulting in two distinct palaces.

The Lower Belvedere (1712–1716)

Construction began on the Lower Belvedere (Unteres Belvedere) around 1712 and was completed in 1716. This palace served as the actual living quarters for Prince Eugene. Its state rooms, including the Marble Gallery and the Golden Room, were designed to showcase the prince's wealth and sophisticated taste.

The Upper Belvedere (1717–1723)

Construction on the grander Upper Belvedere (Oberes Belvedere) started in 1717 and finished in 1723. This palace was not intended as a residence but as a magnificent venue for receptions, banquets, and courtly festivities. Its elevated position on a ridge provided a stunning "beautiful view" (belvedere) over the gardens and the city of Vienna, which gave the entire complex its name.

From Imperial Palace to Public Museum

After Prince Eugene died in 1736, his niece inherited the estate, but she soon sold it to Empress Maria Theresa in 1752. The Belvedere entered a new phase as an imperial property. It was under Maria Theresa and her son, Emperor Joseph II, that the palace's destiny as a cultural institution was forged. In 1776, they decided to move the Imperial Picture Gallery from the Hofburg Palace to the Upper Belvedere, making the collection accessible to the general public. This move established the Belvedere as one of the world's very first public museums.

A Stage for World History

The Belvedere continued to play a role in major historical events. In the late 19th century, it became the residence of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, the heir whose assassination in Sarajevo in 1914 would ignite World War I. The palace suffered damage from bombing raids during World War II but was carefully restored.

Its most pivotal moment in modern history came on May 15, 1955. In the magnificent Marble Hall of the Upper Belvedere, representatives of the Allied occupying powers (the United States, Great Britain, France, and the Soviet Union) and Austria signed the Austrian State Treaty. This document re-established Austria as a free, independent, and sovereign state. Foreign Minister Leopold Figl famously presented the signed treaty to the cheering crowds from the palace balcony, declaring, "Austria is free!".

Belvedere in the 21st Century

Today, the Belvedere is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Austria's most visited cultural attractions. It operates as a leading museum under the name Österreichische Galerie Belvedere.

  • The Upper Belvedere houses the permanent collection, renowned for its unparalleled assembly of Gustav Klimt paintings, including The Kiss, as well as masterpieces of Austrian art from the Middle Ages to the mid-20th century.
  • The Lower Belvedere, along with the Orangery, is used for special temporary exhibitions that explore Austrian art in an international context.
  • Belvedere 21, a separate modern pavilion, is dedicated to contemporary art, film, and music.

The palace's rich history is palpable as you walk its halls and gardens. To experience this unique blend of art, architecture, and history, you can book book tickets to visit the collections or arrange guided tours to delve deeper into its story.

Frequently asked questions

When was Belvedere Palace built?

The Belvedere Palace complex was built in the early 18th century. The Lower Belvedere was constructed between 1712 and 1716, and the Upper Belvedere was built between 1717 and 1723.

Who was the architect of Belvedere Palace?

The architect of the entire Belvedere complex was Johann Lukas von Hildebrandt, one of the most important Austrian Baroque architects. He was commissioned by the original owner, Prince Eugene of Savoy.

What major treaty was signed at Belvedere Palace?

The Austrian State Treaty was signed in the Marble Hall of the Upper Belvedere on May 15, 1955. This treaty ended the Allied occupation after World War II and restored Austria's full sovereignty.

Step into history and witness centuries of art by securing your tickets to visit the magnificent Belvedere Palace.