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Schönbrunn enters history in the 12th century as the Katterburg estate, which came into the possession of the Habsburgs in 1569. Named after the “schöner Brunnen” (fair spring) found on the grounds, the complex has borne its current name since 1642. At the end of the 17th century, the baroque architect Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach delivered the plans for a hunting lodge, which Maria Theresa then had converted into her summer residence at great expense. While the empress was deeply involved in the elaboration of the palace, dear to the heart of her husband, Franz Stephan, was the design of the expansive palace park. Later in the mid-19th century, on the occasion of the wedding of Franz Joseph and Elisabeth, known as Sisi, the apartments of the imperial couple were exquisitely redecorated.

This lavishly illustrated volume documents the current state of research into the history of the construction and decoration of Schönbrunn Palace, its outbuildings, and gardens. It emphasises the importance of the palace complex as a cultural monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The book can be ordered online from Kral Verlag: