Archduke Franz Ferdinand was the final resident of Belvedere palace, which was converted into the Austria Gallery Museum after World War I. The last restoration of the gardens, however, was in 1851 and they only suffered more damage and neglect during the first half of the 20th century. (...)
Archduke Franz Ferdinand was the final resident of Belvedere palace, which was converted into the Austria Gallery Museum after World War I. The last restoration of the gardens, however, was in 1851 and they only suffered more damage and neglect during the first half of the 20th century. WMF placed the Belvedere Gardens on the 1996 Watch List in an attempt to reveal the state of disrepair of the much-loved Viennese landmark. In the late 90's, the Austrian government ordered an inquiry into the condition of the structural elements. WMF joined The Austrian Society for Historical Gardens and other conservation organizations to compile a long-term strategy for the return of the gardens to their original style and condition. The plan included renovation of trellises, pavilions, fountain elements, and a new cafe. A WMF Wilson Challenge grant contributed to the funds for reconstruction, specifically enabling the repair of the unsound western ramp and the introduction of a cistern for irrigation water.
