Schloss Esterházy
Burgenland
Schloss Esterházy, located in Eisenstadt, Austria, is a grand Baroque palace that served as the principal residence of the Esterházy family for over three centuries. Originally constructed in the late 13th century as a medieval fortress, it was transformed into a lavish Baroque palace between 1663 and 1672 under Prince Paul I Esterházy. The palace is notable for its ornate stucco decorations by Andrea Bertinalli and its historical role as the workplace of the famous composer Joseph Haydn, who served the Esterházy family as Kapellmeister. Throughout the 18th century, the palace's interiors were enhanced with elegant staircases, stucco ceilings, and furnaces, while the early 19th century saw a Classical style renovation led by architect Charles Moreau, although financial constraints prevented its full completion. The palace features the splendid Haydnsaal, a grand festival and banquet hall renowned for its size and decorative splendor, reflecting the Esterházy family's cultural prominence. Today, Schloss Esterházy is a major tourist attraction offering visitors guided tours of its richly furnished rooms, art collections, a wine museum, and concerts in the Haydnsaal, all set within extensive palace grounds.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Schloss Esterházy is during the warmer months when the palace gardens are in full bloom. Visitors are advised to book guided tours and concert tickets in advance to ensure availability, especially for events in the Haydnsaal. Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, and students. The palace is accessible by public transport and offers visitor amenities including a gift shop and a wine museum.
Faits intéressants
- •Joseph Haydn, one of the most important classical composers, worked at Schloss Esterházy for most of his life as court musician and Kapellmeister.
- •The Haydnsaal, the palace's grand festival hall, is famous for its ornate Baroque decoration and excellent acoustics, making it a popular concert venue.
- •The palace's architectural evolution reflects a transition from a medieval fortress to a Baroque and later partially Classical style residence.
- •The palace grounds include a wine museum showcasing the region's viticultural heritage.
- •The Esterházy family owned the palace continuously from 1622 until the 20th century, marking over 300 years of family history.
Histoire
The origins of Schloss Esterházy date back to the late 13th century when it was built as a medieval castle for defense.
In 1364, it came under the Kanizsai family, who expanded it significantly.
By 1622, the Esterházy family acquired the estate, which Prince Paul I converted into a Baroque palace between 1663 and 1672.
The 18th century brought interior enhancements, while the early 19th century saw attempts to remodel the palace in Classical style under architect Charles Moreau, though financial difficulties halted full completion.
After World War II, the palace served governmental functions before being restored and opened to the public as a cultural site.
Guide du lieu
Haydnsaal17th century
The Haydnsaal is the palace's magnificent festival and banquet hall, originally built as a multi-purpose space. It is renowned for its size, ornate stucco decorations, and excellent acoustics, reflecting the Esterházy family's wealth and cultural influence. Today, it hosts concerts and cultural events, often featuring works by Joseph Haydn.
Baroque Facade and Stucco Decorations1663–1672
The palace's Baroque facade was completed between 1663 and 1672 under Prince Paul I Esterházy, featuring rich stucco work by Italian master Andrea Bertinalli. This facade is a defining feature of the palace's external appearance and reflects Baroque artistic trends of the period.
Classical Renovation and Entrance1805–1815
In the early 19th century, architect Charles Moreau led a Classical style renovation that included plans for a grand entrance with twenty Corinthian columns and additions like a theatre and picture gallery. However, due to financial constraints and Napoleonic wars, the renovation was only partially completed, leaving the original main entrance in use.
Contact
Téléphone: 02682 630047600