As part of a costly process, all areas of the Schönbrunn palace chapel were restored under scientific guidance, in cooperation with the Archdiocese of Vienna. In the next stage, the chapel will be reopened to the public. Background: After assuming the throne, Maria Theresia had the Schönbrunn palace chapel furnished prestigiously. Austrian baroque artists such as the architect Nikolaus Pacassi and the painters Paul Troger and Daniel Gran were commissioned to undertake the work. The original room structure and wall design followed the plans of architect Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach, and this was largely retained by the monarch. The chapel was inaugurated during a celebration on 20 April 1745 by the Archbishop of Vienna, Sigismund Graf Kollontisch, in the presence of Maria Theresia and her royal household.

 “The full restoration of the Schönbrunn palace chapel has been completed successfully and now it is hoped that it will be possible to allow the public to visit the chapel for the long-term.“

“It has been historically confirmed that the palace chapel was an important part of the palace grounds for Maria Theresia. Today, it is shining in its full splendor and should be made accessible to visitors and those seeking a place to pray.”