In the center of the Josefsplatz square there is an equestrian statue of Emperor Joseph II. It was erected by sculptor Franz Anton von Sauner between 1795 and 1807. The statue of the emperor was modeled on the statue of Marcus Aurelius on Capitoline Hill in Rome and was commissioned by Emperor Francis II, who from 16 years was brought up by Uncle Joseph II, the son of Maria Theresa, who advocated extensive liberal reforms. The image of Joseph II as a Roman conqueror, dressed in a toga and with a laurel wreath, reflects the deep faith of the Habsburgs that they were descendants of ancient Roman emperors. The area is bordered by an ensemble of buildings that are part of the Hofburg Palace. They contain the main part of the Austrian National Library. In addition to its library function, the building has excellent acoustics. Translated with Google Translate