Visiting the Belvedere Palace
Among Austrian Baroque architecture, the Belvedere Palace is the definitive masterpiece. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the summer residence of Prince Eugene of Savoy is a massive complex consisting of two palaces built in the early 18th century. Art is displayed here with equal excellence, as the Upper Belvedere houses an exceptional museum, serving as the setting for one of the country's most significant collections of paintings and sculptures. Grand and dazzling, the site is one of the reasons Vienna remains unforgettable.
An Appointment with Klimt
Since 1723, the Upper Belvedere has been used for official representation, even serving as the backdrop for historic events like the signing of the Austrian State Treaty in 1955. From the bright, white entrance hall that opens toward the garden, the splendor is immediate. Four sculpted Atlas figures support the ceiling, and both the massive stone ceremonial staircase and the various rooms are odes to beauty. In this atmosphere where gilding and frescoes create a spectacular frame, the museum spans three levels. Art could not find a finer setting, as some 400 major works from the 19th and 20th centuries make this one of the most visited cultural sites in Austria. Monet, the Plaine d'Auvers by Van Gogh, Funke, and Death and the Maiden by Schiele, represent French Impressionism as well as the Viennese Biedermeier period. Among this list of immense talents, the master of Viennese Modernism stands out with emphasis, as the Belvedere Palace jealously guards the largest collection of Gustav Klimt canvases in the world. This is a unique opportunity to admire Judith or The Kiss, absolute masterpieces that sparkle among his 24 paintings housed here. Committed to contemporary art, the museum continues its mission through various temporary exhibitions. The entire Belvedere Palace, complemented by a French-style garden and a reflecting pool where its beautiful facade appears, is essential to any visit.
Opening hours
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While the architecture of the Belvedere is truly sublime, what you will see inside is even more so. The palace houses an impressive collection of works by Gustav Klimt, including the famous Kiss. Plus, you will be able to discover paintings by Monet or even Van Gogh. I recommend this visit to all art lovers. You could stay there for several hours without seeing the time pass. I really loved it.