The beauty of Schöbrunn's huge grounds is heralded by the frescoes in the Bergl Rooms located on the first floor of the castle, whose exotic plant motifs, the work of the Bohemian painter of the same name, seem to merge ingeniously with the nature of the garden they look onto, which features multicolored flowers and plants that act as a backdrop to the striking architectural elements scattered just about everywhere.
Among the striking elements you can admire with your back to the palace is the central Great Parterre, with flowerbeds designed in a symmetrical and geometric style, flanked by carefully tended hedges preceded by statues of historical and mythological figures.
These are followed by the Fountain of Neptune, dominated by the god of the sea, standing on a shell-shaped chariot, surrounded by nymphs and tritons; finally, above everything and everyone, stands the magnificent Gloriette.
Even from a distance, it is impossible not to be struck by the majesty of this neoclassical building, with a central body in the shape of a triumphal arch, flanked by arched side wings and topped with an imperial eagle in the center, resting on a globe. The ensemble, positioned on a promontory, is a truly powerful spectacle. If you decide to go up to the rooftop viewing terrace, you can enjoy splendid views over the Schönbrunn complex.
There are many more surprises hidden in this French-style Baroque garden, opened to the public in the late 18th century at the behest of Emperor Joseph II.
Make sure you don’t miss the romantic reproduction of the Roman Ruin, complete with an inner basin enclosed by side walls, where classical busts and sculptures are mirrored.
Just a few steps away is the scenic Obelisk Fountain, with river gods resting on the mound in the shape of a grotto, while the Schöner Brunnen, or Fair Spring, is a beautiful well house covered by a pavilion occupied by the graceful statue of the nymph Egeria, who gave her name to this fairy-tale construction.
An interesting fact: Such a huge park would not be complete without a maze: and there are actually two of them here! The original one, rebuilt in the late 1990s, has been joined by a second maze, where, in addition to putting your mind and skills to the test, you’ll also find an amazing giant kaleidoscope. What can I say? This is a perfect place to get lost in!
