Belvedere Palace Gardens: A Baroque Masterpiece in Vienna

The Belvedere-Schlossgarten, a magnificent example of Baroque landscape architecture, serves as a vital link between the Upper and Lower Belvedere palaces in Vienna. Commissioned by Prince Eugene of Savoy in the early 18th century, these gardens were designed as an integral part of the Belvedere complex, reflecting the prince's wealth, power, and refined taste. Designed by Dominique Girard, a student of André Le Nôtre (the landscape architect of Versailles), the gardens showcase all the essential elements of Baroque garden architecture: symmetrical flower parterres, water basins, tiers and steps, and trimmed hedges.The central water basin, adorned with allegorical sculptures, serves as a focal point, drawing the eye towards the city skyline. The reflecting pools mirror the sky and the surrounding architecture, adding to the garden's ethereal beauty. The Lower Belvedere Garden, situated at the foot of the Upper Belvedere, is characterized by its more intimate and secluded atmosphere. Here, visitors can explore hidden pathways, discover secluded groves, and admire the intricate details of the Baroque sculptures.The gardens have been open to the public since 1780. The park is home to the oldest Alpine garden in Europe and houses the Austrian Federal Gardens' valuable historical Alpine plant collection. Established in 1803 at Schönbrunn Palace park, it was transferred to the gardens of the Belvedere in 1865. The Botanical Garden adjoins the Belvedere park. Established in 1754 under Empress Maria Theresa, it is now an independent division of the University of Vienna.Most people focus on the terraced area between the two palaces, but be sure to go around Upper Belvedere to find the small lake. The southernmost point of the lake is the place to take an excellent photo of that upper palace. The water reflects the front of the building and looks particularly spectacular at night.