The Hofburg is the former principal imperial palace of the Habsburg dynasty located in the centre of Vienna, Austria. It was built in the 13th century and expanded several times afterwards. The Hofburg also served as the imperial winter residence, while the Schönbrunn Palace was the summer residence. Since 1946, it is the official residence and workplace of the president of Austria.
The Hofburg has been expanded over the centuries to include various residences, the imperial chapel, the imperial library, the treasury, the Burgtheater, the Spanish Riding School (Hofreitschule), and the imperial mews (Stallburg and Hofstallungen).
The palace faces the Heldenplatz (Heroes’ Square) ordered under the reign of Emperor Franz Joseph I. Around the Heroes’ square are several popular establishments frequented by tourists as well as the princess Sisi museum. Nearby is the popular Kafe Klimt frequented by famous artist Gustav Klimt with some copies of his work and memorabilia on display.
On the other end of the Hofburg is the famous Mozart statue near the popular public park and garden. Mozart along with his contemporary Hayden, spent considerable time in Vienna in late 18th century composing and performing operas and symphonies; followed for over a century afterwards by great composers like Beethoven, Schubert and Strauss brothers among others.
The Hofburg palace, gardens and adjacent museums and attractions can be easily accessed via Vienna’s public transports like the Tram and Bus lines around the Ring loop. The location is also accessible on foot or bike from nearby neighborhoods and hotels with convenient walking paths and bike paths.
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