HOFBURG, Imperial Treasury

The innermost part of the Hofburg, built on the site of the old medieval castle, is the Swiss Court, named for the nationality of the soldiers who made up Maria Theresa's guardhouse. It is entered through a beautiful Renaissance portal from the mid-16th century, the time of Archduke Maximilian I, to whom we owe the current appearance of the complex.

At the back of the courtyard, an external staircase leads to the simple, atmospheric court chapel; below is access to the extraordinary array of gold and precious objects that form the imperial treasury, the Schatzkammer.

The collection is divided into two parts: secular treasure and sacred treasure. The former comprises objects laden with symbolic meaning, related to solemn court ceremonies or intended to highlight imperial power: crowns, globes, scepters and swords, all studded with gems. Precious gifts received from other rulers, and the robes worn by the princes on the occasion of their baptism, can also be admired. The collection is also enriched by objects related to Napoleon and his family, such as a beautiful carved and gilded cradle....