Background

Neptune Fountain: A Baroque Masterpiece

A magnificent Baroque fountain in Vienna's Schönbrunn Palace Gardens, showcasing Roman mythology and Habsburg grandeur.

4.8

The Neptune Fountain, or Neptunbrunnen, is a stunning Baroque landmark in Vienna's Schönbrunn Palace Gardens. Commissioned by Empress Maria Theresa in the late 18th century, it features the Roman god Neptune and mythological figures, symbolizing Habsburg power and cultural sophistication.

A brief summary to Neptune Fountain

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture stunning photos of the fountain and palace.
  • Take the paths up the Gloriette hill for a unique view of the palace and gardens from behind the fountain.
  • Check the official Schönbrunn Palace website for the most up-to-date information on visiting hours and fountain operation.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From central Vienna, take the U4 metro line to the Schönbrunn station. Follow the signs to Schönbrunn Palace, a short walk from the station. The Neptune Fountain is located in the gardens, at the foot of the Gloriette hill, directly behind the palace. A single metro ticket costs €2.40.

  • Walking

    From the Schönbrunn Palace main entrance, walk straight through the gardens towards the Gloriette. The Neptune Fountain is located at the base of the hill, directly in front of the Gloriette. The walk from the palace to the fountain is approximately 15 minutes and offers scenic views of the gardens.

  • Car

    Drive to Schönbrunn Palace and park in the APCOA parking lot on Schönbrunner Schloßstraße. Parking costs approximately €4.50 per hour. From the parking lot, walk to the palace gardens and follow the path towards the Gloriette. The Neptune Fountain will be visible at the base of the hill.

Unlock the Best of Neptune Fountain

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Neptune Fountain

Nestled at the foot of the Gloriette hill in Vienna's Schönbrunn Palace Gardens, the Neptune Fountain stands as a testament to Baroque artistry and Habsburg grandeur. This impressive monument, also known as Neptunbrunnen, was commissioned by Empress Maria Theresa as part of her extensive redesign of the Schönbrunn Palace gardens. Construction began in 1776 and was completed in 1780, just before the Empress's death. The fountain's design, attributed to Johann Ferdinand Hetzendorf von Hohenberg, showcases a dramatic scene from Roman mythology. The central figure is Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, confidently posed in a shell-shaped chariot, holding his trident. Surrounding him are other mythological figures, including a nymph and the sea goddess Thetis, who is depicted kneeling and pleading with Neptune to favor her son Achilles on his voyage to Troy. At the base of the grotto, four tritons, half-man and half-fish creatures, restrain the sea-horses that draw Neptune's chariot. The Neptune Fountain is not only a visual spectacle but also a symbol of the Habsburg monarchy's cultural aspirations during the Enlightenment. Its design reflects classical mythology and Renaissance art, embodying the power and sophistication of the Habsburgs. The fountain is positioned as the crowning element of the Great Parterre, harmoniously integrated into the overall design of the gardens. A retaining wall, adorned with vases, curves into the slope of the Gloriette hill, forming the backdrop of the vast basin. Visitors can admire the intricate details of the marble sculptures, executed by Wilhelm Beyer, and the overall grandeur of the fountain. Paths on either side of the fountain lead up the hill, offering a unique perspective from behind the fountain, with a view of the palace and gardens. The fountain operates from April to mid-October, with water flowing from 10 am to 4 pm. The surrounding park is open from 6:30 am, providing opportunities for early morning visits and crowd-free photos.

Popular Experiences near Neptune Fountain

Popular Hotels near Neptune Fountain

Select Currency