ViennaThree

Rained steadily last night but eased during the morning. We had another lazy start...because we can!

The summer palace of the ruling Habsburgs was today' s destination. I had studied the the rule of Marie Theresa and her son Joseph during my matric year. 18th Century rulers who made a huge impact on the European scene prior to the French Revolution. To walk in the corridors that they walked in was something I thought I would never do.

The Schönbrunn Palace was near the end of our train line, so very convenient. Fortunately it is the off season, 'cause the permanent queue arrangements were very scary. We decided upon a quick snack before we tackled the 44 rooms that were part of our Audio Guide ticket.

No photos allowed. My first impression was that Versailles really knows how to do opulence. This palace was more "tasteful" in its grandeur. Having said that, every piece of furniture was elaborate, parquetry floors most detailed and the fussy requirements of wealth boldly evident. How Marie T dealt with running a palace, dealing with empire affairs and being pregnant 16 years out of 28 years of marriage...Go Girl!

My first glimpse of the garden vista was special and we walked to the fountain. You do a lot of walking to see palaces. However, Tony and I both agree that for a "wow" factor, the carriage room wins the prize. Fairytale appearances and skilful craftsmanship let alone heavy weight for the horses to pull. Other exhibits included dresses worn by a popular empress who was assassinated in her 60's. She was known for attention to her appearance...I think she had a weight fetish when you see her waistline!

So after spending the entire afternoon at Schönbrunn we caught the train back, having an aperitif at the bar of a fancy Hotel before returning to cook dinner.

 

 

 

That waist cannot be real although all of her dresses were similar.

 

Even a"Snow Queen" sleigh.

 

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