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Alserbachpalais: A Hidden Gem in Vienna's Alsergrund

Discover the Alserbachpalais, a Neo-Renaissance gem in Vienna's Liechtensteinpark, steeped in history and offering a glimpse into the city's aristocratic past.

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The Alserbachpalais, also known as the Sommerpalais, is a Neo-Renaissance palace located in Vienna's 9th district, Alsergrund. Built in the late 19th century by Heinrich von Ferstel for Countess Franziska Kinsky of Wchinitz and Tettau, it stands on the site of a former belvedere within the Liechtensteinpark. While not open to the public for general tours, its impressive architecture and historical significance make it a noteworthy landmark. The palace is surrounded by the serene Liechtensteinpark, offering visitors a tranquil escape from the city bustle. The palace's history is intertwined with the Liechtenstein family, one of the most important noble families of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Today, the palace houses offices and apartments, maintaining its grandeur and contributing to the architectural landscape of Vienna. Its proximity to other attractions and the park makes it a worthwhile destination for those exploring Vienna's rich cultural heritage, even if only viewed from the outside. The Alserbachpalais provides a glimpse into Vienna's aristocratic past and architectural evolution.

A brief summary to Alserbachpalais

  • Alserbachstraße 14-16, Vienna, Alsergrund, 1090, AT
  • +4314000

Local tips

  • Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Liechtensteinpark for excellent views of the Alserbachpalais and the adjacent Gartenpalais Liechtenstein.
  • Visit the Gartenpalais Liechtenstein (Liechtenstein Garden Palace) for events and guided tours to experience the Liechtenstein family's art collection.
  • Explore the Alsergrund district, known for its blend of historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and modern eateries.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Schottentor (U2), take the 40A bus and alight at Bauernfeldplatz. From there, it's a short walk to Alserbachstraße 14-16. Alternatively, from Rossauer Lände (U4), walk approximately 600 meters to the entrance on Alserbachstraße. A single public transport ticket costs €2.40.

  • Walking

    From the Sigmund Freud Museum, walk north along Berggasse, then turn left onto Liechtensteinstrasse. Continue until you reach Alserbachstraße. The palace will be on your right, within Liechtensteinpark. The walk is approximately 15 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from the city center (e.g., Stephansplatz) to Alserbachpalais will take approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between €15-€20.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to Alserbachstraße 14-16, 1090 Vienna. Limited parking is available in the area. Consider using the underground car park on Bauernfeldplatz. Hourly parking rates typically range from €3-€4, with daily rates around €20-€25.

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Discover more about Alserbachpalais

The Alserbachpalais, often referred to as the Sommerpalais (Summer Palace), is a distinguished building nestled in Vienna's Alsergrund district. Its history is deeply intertwined with the Princely Family of Liechtenstein, one of the most influential noble families of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. While perhaps lesser-known than some of Vienna's more prominent palaces, the Alserbachpalais holds its own charm and significance. Originally, the site was home to a belvedere designed by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach in the late 17th century. This belvedere, a common feature in Viennese Baroque gardens, offered scenic views over the surrounding parkland. However, in 1873, Prince Johann II commissioned the renowned architect Heinrich von Ferstel to construct a new palace as a summer residence for his mother, Countess Franziska Kinsky of Wchinitz and Tettau. Ferstel, known for his Neo-Renaissance style, designed the Alserbachpalais, which was completed in 1875. The palace's architecture is a testament to Ferstel's skill and the Neo-Renaissance movement. Measuring 102 meters in length, the palace is larger than the original belvedere. The garden-facing front is particularly striking, incorporating a triumphal arch-like motif into the loggia, drawing inspiration from the former belvedere. Two entrances on the garden side provide access to the palace. The ground floor originally housed guest rooms and functional spaces, while the principal floor held ceremonial halls and the apartments of the Princely Family. The Liechtensteinpark, in which the Alserbachpalais is situated, dates back to 1687. It was initially laid out as a pleasure garden following the siege of Vienna by the Turks. Designed by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach, the park and its Baroque-style pleasure palace were commissioned by Prince Hans-Adam I of Liechtenstein. Today, the Liechtensteinpark is considered the city's oldest palace garden still in existence, offering a tranquil escape from the urban environment. Over the years, the Liechtenstein family amassed an impressive art collection, which was housed in the Gartenpalais Liechtenstein. From 1805 to 1938, this collection was open to the public. During World War II, the collection was moved to Liechtenstein for safekeeping. While the Alserbachpalais itself does not currently house a museum, its connection to the Liechtenstein family and their artistic legacy adds to its cultural significance. Today, the Alserbachpalais serves as a mixed-use building, housing offices and apartments. Although it is not generally open to the public for tours, its exterior can be admired from the Liechtensteinpark. The palace's location on Alserbachstraße provides excellent access to shops, restaurants, and public transportation, while its garden-facing side offers a peaceful view of the park. Visiting the Alserbachpalais offers a glimpse into Vienna's aristocratic past and architectural evolution. While you may not be able to explore its interiors, the palace's impressive facade and its setting within the Liechtensteinpark make it a worthwhile destination for those interested in Vienna's rich cultural heritage. The park itself is open to the public and provides a pleasant space for relaxation and recreation. The Alserbachpalais stands as a reminder of Vienna's imperial history and the enduring legacy of the Liechtenstein family.

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