‘Mother of the Nation’, Wife and Mother – Empress Maria Theresa
|
|
| Maria Theresa, the only woman ever to rule Austria, Hungary, and Bohemia, is undoubtedly one of Europe’s most iconic monarchs—celebrated as a legend in her own lifetime. The popular image we hold today is that of a strong-willed sovereign who governed her subjects and her realms with maternal common sense, as if they were members of one great family. But is this image idealised? And do her reforms withstand critical scrutiny? Her extensive private correspondence and a wealth of personal notes offer revealing insights into her marriage to Francis Stephen of Lorraine, Holy Roman Emperor, whom she affectionately addressed as “mon chèr oldie.” These documents also illuminate her role as a mother—one who continued to guide, counsel, and sometimes control her children long after they had left the imperial court, always with dynastic interests in mind. This walk begins at her majestic monument on Maria-Theresien-Platz, continues past the Hofburg—her principal residence—includes the Court Church of St. Augustine, where she was married, and concludes with a visit to the Capuchin Crypt, the final resting place of the imperial family. |
|
| Meeting Point | 1., Maria-Theresien-Platz, in front of the monument |
| Dates | There are no dates for this tour but it can be booked individually for a group |
| Attention | |
| Printversion | |
 |
Telefon: +43 1 774 89 01 |   |
| Fax: +43 1 774 89 33 | |
| info@viennawalks.com | Login |