THE ARTS SOCIETY APPLEBY IN WESTMORLAND CONQUER VIENNA

On the 14th of September, 25 determined members set off to explore the art, history, and palaces of Vienna. We expected sunshine and blue skies but were greeted by gale-force winds and pouring rain! Despite Vienna being declared an emergency zone shortly after our arrival, our resilient group carried on with smiles and umbrellas in hand. 

From the majestic Schönbrunn Palace, where we marveled at the Habsburg Empire’s apartments (sadly, the gardens were too stormy to enjoy), to the breathtaking art of Gustav Klimt at the Upper Belvedere Palace, we soaked up Vienna’s rich culture. The curator’s passionate explanation of Klimt’s work brought the paintings to life in a way we won’t soon forget.

Later that day, we explored the Kunsthistorisches Museum, a magnificent space housing the Imperial Collections, including masterpieces by the Old Masters from the 15th to the 18th centuries. Walking through its grand halls felt like stepping back in time.

We topped off our trip with an enchanting evening at the Kursalon, where we were serenaded by a dazzling performance of Strauss and Mozart classics. The orchestra’s waltzes, polkas, arias, and duets swept us away, providing the perfect crescendo to our Viennese adventure.