Austrian National Library State Hall
Prunksaal der Österreichischen Nationalbibliothek
The Baroque library hall in the Hofburg, with a dome fresco and about 200,000 old volumes. It is often ranked among the most beautiful libraries in the world.
The State Hall (Prunksaal) is the heart of the Austrian National Library. It was built in the 1720s and 1730s by Emperor Charles VI, commissioned from the architects Fischer von Erlach father and son. It is nearly 80 metres long. Beneath the central oval dome stands a statue of Charles VI. Around it are walnut bookshelves holding about 200,000 volumes from the 16th to 19th centuries, and a ceiling fresco by Daniel Gran. The library also holds the private collection of Prince Eugene. The entrance is on Josefsplatz in the Hofburg. An adult ticket costs about 10 euros, which includes other museums such as the Papyrus Museum; check the official website for current details. Opening hours are usually 10:00 to 18:00, with late opening until 21:00 on Thursdays. A visit takes about 45 minutes, and it pairs well with the Hofburg and the Spanish Riding School on the same day.
Opening hours
10:00–18:00 (Thu until 21:00; closed Mondays in winter; check the official website)
Nearby sights
- Spanish Riding School
- Albertina
- Imperial Crypt (Kapuzinergruft)
- Hotel Sacher & Original Sachertorte
- Vienna State Opera
- Graben & Kohlmarkt
- Café Central
- Kunsthistorisches Museum