Art at the Belvedere Palace in Vienna
Vienna is a delightfully graceful and elegant city with some of the most spectacular palaces in the world and some of the finest art collections from the world’s greatest artists.
One of the most impressive architectural wonders of the city is the Belvedere. A complex of two historical palaces draped in the beauty of the classical Baroque architectural style the city is famed for. The buildings are known as the Upper Belvedere, Lower Belvedere, Orangery and Palace Stables and feature some of the finest examples of Baroque architectural details from the fine crisp white appearance to the immaculate symmetry and ornate finishes so recognisable of the classical style.
Surrounding these wonderful architectural examples are the impressive Baroque gardens landscaped to absolute perfection. Again the attention to symmetry is evident in the designs and all feature the classical elements of tiered steps, delicately balanced planting, trimmed hedges and stunning fountains with elaborate details and focal points. A garden that is so much more than a pretty place to relax for a while.
Built as a summer residence for Prince Eugene of Savoy during a period of major construction in Vienna, the Palace is one of the finest examples of Baroque design and a unique piece of art in its own right yet within the walls lie some of the most treasured masterpieces awaiting your discovery.
Lower Belvedere is home to a collection of art that spans a broad range of periods. Though currently under renovation until summer 2021 the Lower Belvedere is still a magnificent architectural delight to view, even if only seen externally. Preserving the collections for the future is something the Belvedere are passionate about and they are continuously working to collect, preserve and move forward with the digital advances available to the art world to provide a collection that will continue to inspire. Collectively bringing together the traditional and the modern for many years to come.
The Upper Belvedere is one of the most visited art museums in Austria and it is easy to see why when it is home to some of the finest works by artists such as Schiele, Funke, Monet, Van Gough and, of course, Klimt.
Probably one of the most recognisable pieces in the world, the Upper Belvedere is home to ‘The Kiss’ by Gustav Klimt. A beautiful, delicate piece depicting the moment between two people, painted in oils with gold leaf, silver and platinum. An artistic enchantment set within the walls of architectural delight, definitely a moment not to miss when visiting the beautiful city of Vienna.
Exhibiting the wonders of the art world is something the Belvedere does amazingly but it is the art that lies all around the setting that makes this creative experience at the Belvedere so memorable. From the architectural contrast in the traditional Baroque details to the strong bold structure of the post-war modernism design of the Belvedere 21, a venue for contemporary art, then to the vast landscaping and gardens that lie within the grounds. This isn’t just a palace, this is an immersive experience for the senses and definitely one that will leave many special memories.
Whatever you choose to see and do in Vienna be sure to include the artistic beauty the Belvedere Palace has to share.