Neue Burg (New Palace), Vienna

The Neue Burg, also known as the New Palace, stands as the latest and most magnificent addition to the Hofburg complex located in Vienna. This imposing, curved extension to the Imperial Palace in Heldenplatz was meticulously crafted by the renowned architects Karl von Hasenauer and Gottfried Semper, who were part of the Ringstrasse architectural movement. The construction of this impressive structure took place over the span of 32 years, commencing in 1881 and concluding in 1913. It serves as a testament to the twilight years of the Habsburg Empire, which was grappling with growing aspirations for independence within its various territories. At this juncture, it appeared that the personal prestige of Emperor Franz Joseph was the sole force holding the empire together, and ironically, the Neue Burg was completed just five years before the empire's disintegration.

Despite the less than ideal circumstances for such an ambitious construction project, the work pressed on. Upon its completion, the palace served as the residence for Archduke Franz Ferdinand. Notably, in 1938, Adolf Hitler delivered his proclamation of the Anschluss, signifying the unification of Austria and Germany, from the terraced central bay of the Neue Burg to a vast assembly of tens of thousands of Viennese citizens gathered outside.

Today, Neue Burg is home to the national library's reading room and several museums, including the Ephesos Museum showcasing ancient artifacts from Ephesus and Samothrace, the Collection of Arms and Armour with remarkable weaponry, the Collection of Ancient Musical Instruments featuring Renaissance-era instruments, and the Weltmuseum Wien exploring travel and ethnography. The Hofburg Congress Centre is also on-site.

Why You Should Visit:
To get a feel for Vienna's central district and its main landmark – one of must-dos at Hofburg.
Home to three collections of the Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna.

Tip:
Young people under 19 enter for free.
Wheelchair rental possible (reserve one day in advance). Notification by telephone approx. 15 minutes before arrival at the front desk suggested.
The collection of Ancient Instruments and that of Arms and Armor are only accessible via elevator at the ticket counter level; the Ephesos Museum can only be reached from this level via steps (total 60 steps).