Golden Eagle of Schonbrunn Palace Vienna Austria
The Golden Eagle at the entrance of Schonbrunn Palace, Vienna, looked grand against the blue sky.
There are two Vienna eagles, installed on top of two long pillars at the gates of Schonbrunn Palace leading into a huge courtyard. The two obelisks on either side are crowned by the eagles which the Emperor Napoleon is reported to have had erected.
They have such streamlined, sleek, chiseled look, that it is impossible to ignore them. The sun shone on them, illuminating them gloriously and the glitter attracted attention from far.
Significance of Eagle Symbol
The eagle is symbolic of authority, ownership and virility; probably that is why the statues of these creatures are installed in places of power and importance.
Eagles have consistently served as powerful and widely recognized symbols throughout history. Revered as the “kings of the sky,” these majestic birds have been adopted by ruling families as a representation of their authority, dominance, and unwavering strength. The regal and untamed nature of the eagle embodies the aspirations and might of those seeking to project their power and influence upon the world.
Eagles are one of the most popular symbols of patriotism, and are revered by many cultures as symbols of strength and power, and are often associated with wisdom. Eagles are also associated with wisdom and knowledge.
The Austrian-Hungarian eagle in Vienna is unique. It is a two headed eagle. One may assume that this doubled-headed eagle represents the dual Austrian-Hungarian monarchy.
Also see: Neptune Fountain in Schonbrunn Palace
Column Eagle Monument
History of Vienna Eagle
The eagle has held symbolic significance throughout history, starting with its use by the Romans as a representation of their power during antiquity, albeit with a single head. In the subsequent years, the Holy Roman Empire adopted a single-headed eagle as its heraldic animal.
Following the fall of the western Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire adopted the eagle but added a second head. This double-headed eagle symbolized both the physical and spiritual authority of the Byzantine Emperor, as well as an aspirational claim to power in both the East and the West.
However, the double-headed eagle resurfaced in the late Middle Ages, signifying the distinction between royal and imperial status. The two heads represented the royal (königliche) and imperial (kaiserliche) spheres of influence.
Double headed eagle – Austrian Symbol
After the dissolution of the Holy Roman Empire in 1806, the Habsburgs continued to utilize the double-headed eagle (albeit with minor modifications) for the Austrian empire, thus reinforcing the connection to their historical ties. With the establishment of the dual monarchy in 1867, the double-headed eagle came to be associated with the two halves of the empire, despite its usage predating this period.
Throughout its evolution, the double-headed eagle has served as a potent symbol of power, dynastic continuity, and territorial aspirations. Its enduring presence in various historical contexts underscores its enduring significance and the timeless allure of this majestic creature.
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That looks so majestic. Great shots.
Wow – that eagle is pretty impressive! Magnificent shots.
Very well captured against the blue sky
That eagle is a stunner! Beautiful shots.
Beautiful golden eagle paired in that perfectly blue sky. Thanks for the visit.
Must have been a beautiful sight..nice snap..!
Amazing photographs, Indrani!
Oh, wow! What an eagle and such a very blue sky. Wonderful!
The Gold against the blue sky is perfect in the second one. Clear blue sky! WoW!
Precious gold against the blue sky, I love it.
What a magnificent sight those large wings make against the backdrop of the blue sky. Eagles do, indeed, convey strength, which is why countries like American also make use of the bird as its symbol.
superb
Great to follow your European adventures.
Wow, that looks really impressive !
Beautiful sky and the golden eagles are gradn! Happy skywatching!
love the second one
happy SWF
Majestic and glorious!!
glorious!!
Aaaw Inspiring@!
Very grand golden eagle.
Grand indeed!
you soar with the golden eagles!
Aloha from Waikiki;
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Beauties!
It certainly does look grand against that wonderful blue sky, Indrani. Eagles are so majestic.
Kay, Alberta, Canada
An Unfittie’s Guide to Adventurous Travel
These are great pictures of the eagles. The sky is a perfect backdrop for the eagles.
Amazing shot!
Have a great weekend:-)
I haven't been to Vienna for ages and seems it's a mistake:)
Lovely post!
great shot ~ the golden color eagle against the perfect blue sky
The blue sky is the perfect background for the golden eagle.
Gorgeous skies and the perfect backdrop for that very handsome eagle! Terrific post as always, Indrani! Enjoy your weekend!
Sylvia
Great shots!! Boom & Gary of the Vermilon River, Canada.
Your pictures are as always very good.
greetings, Joop
Wow a great symbol that is.
Sky Watch
Gorgeous captures!
Sky Watch at my page, please come and see. Have a nice weekend!
Great shots! Happy sky watching.
Skywatch