Belvedere Palace

Overview

The Belvedere is a Baroque palace complex housing Austria's most important art collection, including Gustav Klimt's 'The Kiss'. Built for Prince Eugene of Savoy, its Upper and Lower palaces flank a terraced French garden with city skyline views.

Highlights

• The Kiss (1907–08): Klimt's gold-leaf masterpiece dominates the Upper Belvedere's Marble Hall.
• Schiele and Kokoschka: Major works by Austria's other early-20th-century masters.
• Garden panorama: The formal parterre between the two palaces frames a postcard view of Stephen's Cathedral.

History

Built between 1714 and 1723 by Johann Lukas von Hildebrandt for military hero Prince Eugene, the Upper Belvedere hosted the signing of the Austrian State Treaty in 1955, restoring sovereignty after WWII.

Visitor Tips

• Timed entry: Book online—the Klimt rooms fill quickly.
• Lower Belvedere: Often has excellent temporary exhibitions; check schedule.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.