The history of cultivating citrus plants and other Mediterranean and exotic species in containers at Schönbrunn can be traced back to at least the early 18th century. In the beginning, Dowager Empress Wilhelmine Amalie of Brunswick-Lüneburg, who was granted Schönbrunn as her dower residence and lived there from 1711 to 1722, established a collection of over 300 plants, likely brought from southern Italy. This collection was maintained during Emperor Charles VI's reign (1711-1740), Maria Theresa's father, and ultimately formed the foundation of today's collection.
By the mid-1750s, citrus trees and Mediterranean ornamental and crop plants were overwintered in the Great Orangery, which Empress Maria Theresa (*1740-1780) had constructed by 1756. During her reign, the collection reached its most magnificent and expansive state. The plants were placed in the Orangery Garden and around the park throughout the summer.
Currently, during the winter, the Orangery mainly houses various Eugenia species, along with bay trees, pomegranates, and citrus trees - some of Europe's oldest and most significant cultivated plants - as well as larger hemp and date palm specimens and the descendants of Empress Maria Theresa's myrtle. As in the 18th century, from mid-May to the end of September, the plants were placed in the Orangery Garden and at various locations throughout Schönbrunn Park.
The present display in the Orangery Garden consists of three plant groups. These include a selection of primarily evergreen and flowering plants from Mediterranean regions, such as myrtles, olive trees, and date palms, alongside succulent plants, primarily from South and Central America and Southeast Asia, and a variety of heritage fruit trees in wooden containers.
Begin your one-day walking tour of Vienna at the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace. Spend the morning exploring the palace's stunning interiors and expansive gardens. While there, participate in a strudel-making masterclass at the Café Restaurant Residenz, where you can learn the art of crafting the perfect Viennese apple strudel.
After your time at Schönbrunn Palace, go to the city centre by taking the U4 metro line from Schönbrunn station to Karlsplatz station. From Karlsplatz, walk towards the Volksgarten, a beautiful city garden where you can enjoy the meticulously landscaped lawns, vibrant flower beds, and the impressive Temple of Theseus.
Next, continue to Heroes' Square (Heldenplatz), a historic public square surrounded by significant buildings, including the Hofburg Palace. Admire the equestrian statues of Archduke Charles of Austria and Prince Eugene of Savoy before proceeding to explore the Hofburg Palace complex.
While at the Hofburg, visit the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum, and the Imperial Treasury. Afterwards, head to the nearby Spanish Riding School, where you can marvel at the elegant Baroque Winter Riding School and the magnificent Lipizzaner horses. If time permits, consider attending a performance or taking a guided tour of the facility.
Finally, conclude your day in Vienna with dinner at Café Central. This historic coffeehouse, with its beautiful architecture and artistic heritage, is the perfect place to relax and enjoy traditional Viennese coffee, pastries, and savoury dishes as you reflect on your day of exploration.
This walking tour will give you a taste of Vienna's rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, all in a single day.
