Josefsplatz

Josefsplatz in Vienna's First District is regarded as one of the finest enclosed baroque squares in Europe and forms part of the Hofburg complex. Three sides are framed by the Redoutensaal wing, the Augustinian wing with its church, and the spectacular facade of the Austrian National Library's State Hall, built 1722-1726 to plans by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach. On the northeast side the Palais Pallavicini closes the square. At its center stands the bronze equestrian statue of Emperor Joseph II, unveiled by Franz Anton Zauner in 1807, showing the enlightened ruler as a Roman emperor. The square has hosted historic moments too: in 1814 Beethoven conducted the premiere of his Christ on the Mount of Olives in the Augustinian Church here. Today the square is car-free and serves as a photo spot, meeting place and entrance to the National Library.