Eastern Europe in 10 Days Itinerary (Day 1): Maria-Theresien Platz, Austria
After having an awesome time at Schonbrunn Palace, our next destination is Maria Theresien Platz, a square located north of the Hofburg (the Imperial Palace) which was created in the 19th century. As you probably already can tell from the name, the square is named in honor of Empress Maria Theresa, to whom a huge memorial is built and places in the center of the square. The square is also a yearly venue for Christmas Market. But if you want to check the market out, you have to visit Vienna in December.
There are two museums at the left and right side of the monument. Both museums are built together in 1872 which structures facing and mirroring each other. The collection of Museum of Fine Arts (Kunsthistorisches Museum) actually consists of artworks that the many Habsburg rulers acquired over the centuries. These artworks were originally housed in the Hofburg and later, in Belvedere Palace. After the project for Maria-Theresien Platz was started, these Habsburg artworks were subsequently moved to the Kunsthistorisches Museum.
The area between the two museums, Kunsthistorisches Museum and Naturhistorisches Museum (Museum of Natural History), is decorated with formal gardens and statues, fountains and shrub beds. Maria Theresa Monument is located exactly at the centre of the square. It was constructed under the lead of Kaspar von Zumbusch and the construction lasted for 13 years. The statue of Maria Theresa greets the people with her right hand and in her left hand she holds a document roll of the Pragmatische Sanktion (an edict to ensure Habsburg hereditary possessions can be inherited by a daughter) and a scepter. She is surrounded by 4 horseman statues of her generals. This monument is classified as a World Cultural Heritage.
Just opposite the square lies a perfect photo-spot in autumn days. Because the yellow trees are lined along the street. Which I suppose is kinda normal for Austrian. But for me, who live in the other side of the world (and thus, don't have autumn), I love it.
Museum of Fine Arts' address:
Main Building
Maria-Theresien Platz
A-1010 Vienna, Austria
Opening hours:
Jun - Aug
Mon to Wed, Fri to Sun 10AM - 6PM
September to May
Tue - Sun 10AM - 6PM
Thu 10AM - 9PM
(Coin cabinet closes at 6PM)
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