The Vienna Hofburg is closely associated with the development of Austria. For centuries, this unique palace was the Imperial Residence of the Hapsburgs and thus one of the top addresses in Europe. The rooms of the Hofburg have been used for state visits right up to the present day. In addition to providing a stage for political encounters, it was also the showplace for glittering banquets, concerts and balls.

Ludwig van Beethoven's 8th Symphony had its first performance in the grand reception rooms – the Redoutensäle – and the composers Strauss and Liszt both conducted concerts here. With its 700 years of imperial history, the Hofburg links the past with the present. The Hofburg today houses the Spanish Riding School, various museums, art collections and the headquarters of the OSCE (The Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe). It is one of the continent’s most famous venues.