Albertina, Vienna, Austria - SpottingHistory

Albertina museum houses one of the largest and most important print rooms in the world with approximately 65,000 drawings and approximately 1 million old master prints, as well as more modern graphic works, photographs and architectural drawings. Apart from the graphics collection the museum has recently acquired on permanent loan two significant collections of Impressionist and early 20th-century art, some of which will be on permanent display. The museum also houses temporary exhibitions.

The Albertina was erected on one of the last remaining sections of the fortifications of Vienna, the Augustinian Bastion. In 1744 the building was refurbished by Emanuel Teles Count Silva-Tarouca, to become his palace; it was therefore also known as Palais Taroucca. The building was later taken over by Duke Albert of Saxen-Teschen who used it as his residence. He later brought his graphics collection there from Brussels, where he had acted as the governor of the Habsburg Netherlands. He had the building extended by Louis Montoyer. Since then, the palace has immediately bordered the Hofburg. The collection was expanded by Albert's successors.

The collection was created by Duke Albert with the Genoese count Giacomo Durazzo, the Austrian ambassador in Venice. In 1776 the count presented nearly 1,000 pieces of art to the duke and his wife Maria Christina (Maria Theresa's daughter).

In early 1919, ownership of both the building and the collection passed from the Habsburgs to the newly founded Republic of Austria. In 1920 the collection of prints and drawings was united with the collection of the former imperial court library. The name Albertina was established in 1921.

In March 1945, the Albertina was heavily damaged by Allied bomb attacks. The building was rebuilt in the years after the war and was completely refurbished and modernized from 1998 to 2003. Modifications of the exterior entrance sequence, including a signature roof by Hans Hollein were completed 2008, when also the graphics collection finally reopened.

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User Reviews

Paul Hammond (2 years ago)
This was likely the most amazing art museum that I have ever been to. The palace is incredible. The selection of art focusing on impressionists and complimentary artists of the same era along with very well curated displays of prominent German artists was fantastic. Highly recommend.

Jonathan Wright (2 years ago)
Absolutely beautiful gallery, very highly recommended. Their permanent exhibition of Money to Picasso is like a highlight reel of late c19 and early c20. Excellent place. The collection is housed in the kind of beautiful, traditional building typical of Vienna, but with modern twists here and there. You should definitely fit the Albertina into your visit.

Lívia Valle (2 years ago)
In my opinion is the richer art gallery and museum in Vienna. Monet, Picasso, Renoir, Miró and so many others incredible paintings that makes an incredible rich collection.

Arash Pirzadeh (2 years ago)
During my recent visit to Vienna, I had the pleasure of exploring the renowned Albertina, and it proved to be a captivating journey through art and history. Located in the heart of the city, the Albertina is a cultural gem that offers a rich collection of artworks, fascinating exhibitions, and an impressive display of historical artifacts. Upon entering the museum, I was immediately struck by the grandeur of the building and its elegant architecture. The Albertina's facade exudes a sense of refined beauty, and it serves as a fitting introduction to the treasures that lie within. The interior spaces are equally impressive, with well-curated galleries and exhibition halls that create an inviting and immersive environment for visitors. The collection housed in the Albertina is nothing short of remarkable. It boasts an extensive range of artworks spanning different periods and genres, including masterpieces by renowned artists such as Monet, Picasso, and Klimt. The museum's comprehensive display of prints and drawings is particularly noteworthy, providing a unique opportunity to explore the intricacies and artistic processes behind these

Laura Kuhn (2 years ago)
Beautiful museum!! Must see for lovers of the arts. The building itself is also very beautiful. We saw Picasso’s exhibition, some Monet artworks and the gods, heroes and villains exhibition. Recommend going here! We spend about 2-3 hours in the museum. We did not buy tickets beforehand and the entry fee was €14, with student discount.

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