The Secrets of the Imperial Palace

History of the various buildings and stories about its residents.
The buildings of the Hofburg include more than 2.600 rooms. In the course of history the residential area was continuously enlarged, each ruler left his or her traces.
To understand the complex layout of today a comparison with old pictures is essential. The original castle was built as a stronghold. However, the architecture is predominantly Baroque or neo-classical and since the Baroque period the main purpose of the buldings was one of representation. The Hofburg was winter residence and seat of government and still is a governmental building containing many offices of the civil service. Our Federal President resides in the former apartements of Maria Theresia and her son Joseph II. A number of museums and the National Library are located in the Hofburg. The world famous
Vienna Boys' Choir and the Lippizaners belong to the 'living' inventory.
On several occasions fires menaced the Hofburg, the last one in 1992. Traces are still visible. The Lipizzaners also were in great danger. Information is given on running new discoveries of old secrets within the area of the Burg. At the moment an old chapel is going to be excavated.

Attention: the tour is given in German, but is available for groups and individuals as private tour