Explore the Majestic Collection of Arms and Armor: European Royal History in Vienna

This collection showcases artfully decorated arms, suits of armor, and saddles, bearing witness to centuries of European history. It features prominent pieces such as the gold sword of Maximilian II and the splendid suit of armor of King Ferdinand of Aragon, highlighting the representational requirements of rulers and their vassals.

The Collection of Arms and Armor in the Imperial Palace houses a significant display of artfully decorated arms, suits of armor, and saddles that chronicle many centuries of European history. Among its prized possessions are the gold sword of Maximilian II, renowned as one of the world's most beautiful pieces of weaponry, and the splendid suit of armor belonging to King Ferdinand of Aragon. The creation of these objects was often tied to highly political events like military campaigns, imperial diets, and coronations, underscoring their role in representing the power and status of rulers and their vassals. The collection predominantly features items from western European dynasties, spanning from the fifteenth century to the early twentieth century. The exceptional artistic quality of these pieces is attributed to the representational demands of royalty and nobility, with suits of armor meticulously crafted by renowned armor makers, often incorporating designs by famous artists such as Dürer or Holbein.

Opening times are Tuesday to Wednesday from 10:00 to 18:00, Thursday from 10:00 to 21:00, and Friday to Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00. The collection is accessible via an elevator from the Weltmuseum Wien.