Inside the Hofburg: Explore the treasures of the Habsburgs | Tickets Included

The Hofburg is one of the most famous (and largest) monarch's residences in the world. Since the 13th century, it has been repeatedly rebuilt and filled with artefacts symbolising the power of the Holy Roman and later Austro-Hungarian empires. In the 20th century, most of the palace rooms were turned into museums. We will see the main treasures of these collections and discuss their value and purpose. I will explain you: Why professional musical instruments were encouraged in the Habsburg family and which instruments were allowed to be played by the monarch. How deer hunting is linked to Christianity and boar hunting to paganism. Why falconry was recognised as an art. What is the difference between colonial and scientific treatment of artefacts from other cultures. What meaning is embedded in "useless" trappings and "boring" ceremonies Which of the exclusive dynastic markers passed to the Republic of Austria, and which still remain the prerogative of the House of Habsburg.

Itinerary: * The Hofburg's collection of musical instruments and armour collection will shed light on the underlying essence of aristocratic pursuits such as hunting, jousting and music. * In the Imperial Treasury you'll see imperial paraphernalia. Both those that symbolised power in the old days and those that are a sign of belonging to a select society today. * In the Great Hall of the Austrian National Library, see how much importance has been attached to the preservation and dissemination of knowledge since the Enlightenment. * The World Museum is a collection of Habsburg souvenirs from non-European countries. Some of them are the only witnesses to the culture of vanished civilisations. * In the Ephesus Museum you will see statues and reliefs from this ancient Greek city. This is a tour for those who want to explore a wide range of culture and art. It is not suitable for travellers who are primarily interested in everyday life or palace intrigue.