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Lower Belvedere Palace: Discover the Artistic Treasures
Architecture Of Lower Belvedere
Built-in the early 18th century, Lower Belvedere Palace was designed to function as the summer residential palace for Prince Eugene. While exploring it, you can explore the magnificence of Baroque architecture. This type of architecture can enchant you with its splendid design and intricate details. The architectural layout of Lower Belvedere Palace was designed by Johann Lukas Von Hildebrandt.
When you see the palace from the outside, you can see the symmetrical layout and the intricate facade which boasts Baroque ornamentation. After crossing its grand entrance, you can see the elegant staircase that leads up to the main portal. Inside the Lower Belvedere Palace, the two-storey Marble Hall showcases hard-earned military trophies, statues of shackled enemies, and architectural illusions. Inside the Hall of Grotesques, some decorations symbolise Roman mythology. Also, the opulent palace is surrounded by panoramic gardens which promise to offer many opportunities for shutterbugs.
What to See Inside Belvedere Palace?
Grotesque’ was a fancy and one of the most popular architectural designs in Ancient Rome. The Hall of Grotesques in the Lower Belvedere Palace has an enormous grotesque painting which depicts mythological figures, and botanical and zoological elements. This impressive grotesque work was done by Jonas Drentwett who was a famous Augsburg painter. The ceilings of the Hall of Grotesques are adorned with the Four Seasons and the Four Elements in all corners of the room. This hall also has awe-inspiring paintings such as the ‘Three Graces’ and the ‘Vulcan’s Forge’ which have been preserved in their original condition.
Do Checkout: Belvedere 21 Museum
Located in the east of the Lower Belvedere, the Marble Hall is a two-storey hall which was originally used as a reception area. This impressive hall is made up of marble and stone and houses sculpted reliefs, representations of prisoners, military trophies, statues of captive enemies and balconies. The walls of this hall depict the success of Prince Eugene of the Habsburg dynasty as an imperial ruler. Additionally, you will also get to see a fresco painted by Martino Altomonte in which Prince Eugene is portrayed as a nude hero to honour his achievements at the Battle of Peterwardein.
Also Read: Facts About Belvedere Palace
The Marble Gallery or the Marmor Gallerie served as the ceremonial hall for Prince Eugene. As the name suggests, the hall is made of marble and huge mirrors, making it one of the most beautiful rooms in the palace. The Marble Gallery offers direct access to the gardens and was used to display Prince Eugene’s conceit and military achievements. Look up at the ceilings to admire an awe-inspiring relief with Prince Eugene sitting armed at the centre along with his awards and trophies.
Do Checkout: Inside Belvedere Palace
Maria Theresa, the first female ruler of Austria ordered to refurbish this room and turn it into a Gold Cabinet. It is undoubtedly the most impressive room of the Belvedere Palace and a classic example of the ruler’s wealth and prosperity. As the name suggests, the room is decorated with golden walls, huge mirrors and stunning grotesque work. This room has only been renovated once, after which it has been preserved in its original condition and has been on display since 1765.
Also Read: Belvedere Palace History
The Lower Belvedere Palace has a remarkable and lavish interior, due to which it has also been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Johann Lucas von Hildebrandt, an Italian architect was the mastermind behind this architectural masterpiece who designed and planned the entire structure of the palace. The opulent interiors of the palace include impressive paintings by eminent artists, huge frescoes, reliefs, ceiling art, gildings, and grotesque work. Some of the art pieces either depict a story or showcase the glory and grandeur of Prince Eugene during his imperial reign.
Prince Eugene was extremely fond of two things, art and oranges. He made sure to decorate his summer palace with stunning art pieces and added a separate section to grow organic oranges, called The Orangery. Initially, it was a heated conservatory for citrus trees which protected the trees and the fruits against the cold temperatures of winters. After the sudden death of Prince Eugene, all the trees were shifted to Pomeranzenhaus at Schönbrunn Palace, making the Orangery barren and empty. Later, in 1805, it was converted into a stable and then after 1918, the stable was converted into a Museum of Medieval Art.
FAQ's
What is the Lower Belvedere Palace?
Lower Belvedere Palace is a component of the grand Belvedere Palace in Vienna city. It is an 18th-century architectural gem and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It was built as the summer residential palace of Prince Eugene and has been a storehouse of art exhibits like Baroque sculptures and wall paintings from the medieval era.
What can you see inside the Lower Belvedere Palace?
There are separate sections inside the Belvedere Palace such as the Hall of Grotesques, the Marble Hall, the Marble Gallery, the Gold Cabinet and the Orangery. Additionally, you can witness impressive paintings, frescoes, reliefs, ceiling art, gildings, and grotesque work.
What is the best time to visit the Lower Belvedere Palace?
The best time to visit the Belvedere Palace is either during spring or fall as it remains less crowded compared to summers. Additionally, to avoid crowds and long queues, you can plan your visit during the weekdays instead of the weekends.
Is ‘The Kiss’ in the Lower Belvedere?
‘The Kiss’ by Gustav Klimt can be seen in the Upper Belvedere Palace which is another section of the Belvedere Palace. There is only a one-time entrance charge to the Belvedere Palace, after which you can easily get to explore the other three sections of the Museum.
How much does it cost to go to the Lower Belvedere?
The cost for a tour of the Belvedere Palace in Vienna starts from as low as 1,500 INR per adult. The tour includes a visit to the Upper Belvedere, the Lower Belvedere and Belvedere 21 museum.
How many paintings are there in the Lower Belvedere?
The Lower Belvedere Palace is a paradise for all art lovers as it has around 18,600 art pieces from the Middle Ages to the present day. The Palace was converted into an art museum which has the finest artworks on display in all of Austria.
Where is the Lower Belvedere Palace located?
The Lower Belvedere Palace is located at Rennweg 6, 1030 in Vienna city in Austria. It is a part of the Grand Belvedere Palace which is in Vienna and attracts many visitors throughout the year.
What are the Lower Belvedere Palace timings?
The timings of Lower Belvedere Palace are between 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It remains open throughout the year on all days of the week from Monday to Sunday.
Why is the Lower Belvedere Palace important?
The Lower Belvedere Palace is important to understand the history of the Austrian royal family. It was built as a summer residence of Prince Eugene of Savoy and is home to many iconic artefacts that belong to the Middle Ages. You can admire and explore medieval art, contemporary art and other temporary exhibitions at the palace.
How old is the Lower Belvedere Palace?
The Lower Belvedere Palace was built in 1714 and is about 308 years old. The building is known for its splendid architecture and artwork which reflects the elegance and grandeur of the Baroque and Grotesque eras in Vienna.
Belvedere Palace Visitor's Guide