Everything You Need to Know About Imperial Treasury Vienna, Home to Austria's Regal Jewels

• Official Name: Kaiserliche Schatzkammer Wien
• Address: Schweizerhof, Hofburg, 1010 Wien, Austria
• Date of opening: 1954
• Timings: Daily from 9 AM to 5.30 PM
• Architect: Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach
• Architectural Style: Baroque
• UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Treasury is not a World Heritage Site, whereas the Hofburg Palace is registered.
• Number of visitors per year: Around 300,000

The Imperial Treasury in Vienna is a captivating sanctuary of riches that whispers tales of opulence from centuries past. Nestled within the Hofburg Palace, this treasure trove holds a dazzling collection of regal artefacts amassed by the Habsburg dynasty, renowned rulers of the Austrian Empire.

Originally founded by Emperor Ferdinand I in the 16th century, it grew over the years under the discerning eyes of Emperor Maximilian I and Emperor Charles VI. The glittering showcase houses iconic gems such as the imperial crown, the Holy Lance, and the Holy Grail, rumoured to possess mystical powers. Among its countless treasures, a standout is the imperial regalia of the Holy Roman Empire, a testament to the grandeur and enduring legacy of the Habsburgs.

The architecture of the Imperial Treasury in Vienna is intertwined with the majestic splendor of the Hofburg Palace. As you step into the treasury, you are greeted by a harmonious blend of architectural styles that span centuries. The palace itself showcases a fusion of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque influences, creating a visually captivating backdrop for the treasury's exhibits. Ornate facades, grand arches, and intricate detailing adorn the palace's exterior.

Within the treasury, the architecture continues to enchant. Elaborate display cases and gilded interiors add an air of opulence and grandeur. The vaulted ceilings and richly decorated walls create a regal ambiance, befitting the treasures housed within.

• Imperial Regalia: The treasury proudly displays the imperial regalia of the Holy Roman Empire, including the Imperial Crown, the Holy Lance, and the Holy Grail, symbolizing the power and authority of the emperors.
• Crown Jewels: Witness the dazzling crown jewels adorned with precious gemstones, such as the Crown of the Austrian Empire and the Crown of Rudolf II, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship and royal opulence.
• Robes and Vestments: Explore intricately designed robes and vestments worn by the Habsburg emperors during important ceremonies and coronations, featuring rich fabrics, exquisite embroidery, and lavish embellishments.
• Religious Relics: Discover religious relics of profound significance, such as the Agate Bowl, believed to be the Holy Grail, and the Reliquary of the True Cross, which houses a fragment of the cross on which Jesus was crucified, inspiring awe and reverence among visitors.