We enjoyed a lot this private tour. The guide was very interesting and very knowledgeable. She adapted to all our constraints and to what we wanted to see. She could answer to all our questions. Plus she was charming and very friendly.
Sophie
Embodying Power and Faith: A Tour of the Imperial Treasury
Historical regalia in the Vienna Hofburg
The Imperial Crown of the Holy Roman Empire, a chasuble of the Order of the Golden Fleece, and Charlemagne’s Bible witnessed European history and are now preserved in Vienna as ultimate valuables. However, the Imperial Treasury is more than just a repository for crowns, sceptres, mantles, and vestments. I invite you to visit all its halls to see unique artefacts and understand what makes the decorum of power. We will dwell on the symbols of the Imperial Crown of Austria to figure out the components of the main headwear of rulers. For example, we will learn that some crowns have spikes, while others only feature bows. When comparing this crown to the so-called Imperial Crown of the Holy Roman Empire, you will understand the differences between artificially designed symbols and the historical ones. Mantles coming from different eras will tell us why the colour of power hasn’t changed in Western culture for centuries, and why we always choose dark red. Century-old coronation shoes made of samite and decorated with sapphires and emeralds will offer you a rare opportunity to see a masterpiece of the Nobiles Officinae, a royal workshop. However, it’s not just a historic treasure, it is also proof of how important it was for a leader to stand head and shoulders above everyone else, in every sense. You will learn the curious origins of armorial bearings, such as a two-headed eagle or a serpent holding a baby in its mouth. You will see how old symbols become integrated into modern-day life and recognise some popular brand logos among them. Historical regalia incorporate the values of society, and preserved in the Imperial Treasury, they can tell us many things about their time and ours. Julia was extremely well informed . She put the art of Klimt period in a larger Context which was very interesting. Julia answered questions and engaged us as well. It was a great experience with a capable and charming guide. I must add her English is great.
Tour description & booking
Overview
Imperial Treasury 
All collections 
2,5 hours 
1-4 
Optionally, in an interactive format 
300 € per group 
You can buy museum entrance tickets by yourself or add them to your order Book this tour
Read what other customers say about our guided tours:
Explaining Austria’s artistic heritage within its unique historical and cultural context. Our expert guide, Ms Julia Abramova, explained Austria’s priceless artistic heritage within its unique, historical and cultural context.
Must! We have traveled the world to see the greatest masterpieces and have enjoyed tours by many. This tour is without a doubt one of the best we ever had. She’s passionate, knowledgeable, & intriguing in every way. This wasn’t our first visit to the museum, the second time with her was definitely more memorable. Highly recommended. Looking forward to our next tour with her in this great city of Art.
Excellent tour! It was a fantastic experience, and most outstanding part was our guide, Julia. So knowledgeable, with a witty sense of humor and also responded to what our interests are. Would highly recommend!
My guide, Julia, used the museum’s guidemap as a handy rubrik to explain an enlightening thesis to these questions. Her mini iPad was at the ready to broaden our journey with examples that cross reference an artwork with others and provide context. She personalized the talk with a few questions to start. In response, I requested Bronzino as a dessert course. Highly recommended! Also, there’s a turqoise hippo.
