Monday, September 2, 2013

Despite still fighting the effects of jet lag (and Carl recovering from a nasty head cold) we managed to rise early and headed to Schloss Schonbrunn. Built in the late 18th century, this massive palace was the summer home to generations of Hapsburgs along with their 1,500 staff (!!). We toured the state and family apartments - highly decorated in the over the top Rococo style which you either love or hate. Then we walked the gardens and hiked up to the Glorietta for amazing views of the city.




(Yes, that's Carl.. he's on the trip too!)


The Glorietta above.




Jumped on the U-Bahn which is a very efficient and fast subway system, and headed back downtown to the Treasury. The Treasury is the equivalent of the Tower of London's Crown Jewels collection - room after room of Hapsburg family jewels, crowns, coronation robes - an incredible collection. See various magnificent crowns below. The last one is 900 years old.









We also visited St Michael's, the church of the royal court. The altar is very unusual with its sculpted depiction of the archangel Gabriel and the expulsion of rebel angels - all in full blown Rococo.




We had an excellent dinner at Walter Bauer restaurant in the old town...if you come to Vienna don't miss this place! We have been very impressed with the Austrian wines..far better than what you get at the LCBO. Once again, a cool day. Everyone here is dressed for winter which is depressing when I review my collection of shorts and thin t-shirts.

'Til tomorrow,


Fiona & Carl