Schonbrunn Palace

Absolutely beautiful does not describe this place. I felt like I had at once been introduced to the Hapsburg's and understood them so much more. The art that each room held, the construction, and the laundry list purposes of each room showed how they carried on their daily life. Not only the main palace but the extensive gardens and hunting lodge showed their desire to display their power and claim to the throne. Seeing the French eagles at the entrance on top of the obelisks was surprising. This mark and a certain room showed the mark Napoleon had left when staying here. I am not sure why I had half expected this palace to look similar to the ones I had seen in Madrid, but this was much different and beautiful in its form. Walking in the gardens and labyrinth showed a side of the Austrians that i particularly like, they enjoy their nature and know how to take their time when it matters. So many people were strolling with their families and enjoying the day and it didn't take much to imagine Franz Joseph taking a walk in the failing sun along the carefully tended hedges and enjoying the flowers. This place truly was one of luxury and displaying power, yet in a functional way.