Stadtpalais des Prinzen Eugen, Vienna

The Stadtpalais des Prinzen Eugen serves as the winter residence of Prince Eugene. Originally hailing from France, the Prince relocated to Austria during his youth, where he shifted his loyalty to the Austrian realm. He enjoyed a highly successful career within the Imperial service of Austria, amassing considerable wealth in the process. It was this affluence that enabled the Prince to acquire several grand palaces, one of which was his winter residence in Vienna, whose construction commenced in 1697.

In 1736, Prince Eugen passed away without any male heirs to inherit his vast possessions. His niece, Princess Maria Anna Victoria of Savoy, inherited his extensive land holdings and promptly put the Stadtpalais up for sale. The Habsburgs acquired this palace, along with other lands, and subsequently underwent renovations, ultimately repurposing it as the Ministry of Finance building in 1848.

Recently, the palace underwent another round of renovations, allowing the Austrian Ministry of Finance to return to its historical home after a temporary relocation during the refurbishment. While these updates cater to the austere needs of the ministry, the palace remains a sight to behold. The grand staircase has been preserved, offering visitors a glimpse into the past when they can envision approaching the castle and ascending the stairs to enter the magnificent ballroom.