Palais Dietrichstein-Lobkowitz, Vienna

The Palais Lobkowitz, also known as Palais Dietrichstein-Lobkowitz, is a Baroque palace located in the first district of Vienna, which is the inner city. Situated on Lobkowitzplatz, a square named after the palace (formerly known as the "pig market"), it holds historical significance as one of the oldest palace structures in Vienna. This palace signaled a major shift in architectural focus after the Battle of Vienna, being the first prominent Baroque city palace built as the aristocracy shifted resources away from military pursuits.

While the exterior of the palace has largely retained its original design since its construction, the interior has seen various changes over the years. During the era of the Lobkowitz family, the palace went through a series of renovations. In the early 18th century, Johann and Joseph Emanuel Fischer von Erlach were tasked with a significant project that became a highlight in the palace's history.

In the early 19th century, Ludwig van Beethoven was a frequent visitor to a grand palace. This was because the palace's owner at that time, Joseph Franz Maximilian von Lobkowitz, played a significant role in supporting the composer. Beethoven's Third Symphony was actually dedicated to this nobleman, and that's why they named one of the palace rooms the "Eroica Hall." In 1804, Beethoven conducted the premiere of his Third Symphony in this palace hall in Vienna.

Following the conclusion of World War II, the palace served as the headquarters for the Institut Français de Vienne. In 1980, it came under government ownership, and by 1991, following an extensive restoration, it was repurposed as the Theater Museum of the Austrian National Library.