The monument to Maria Theresa in Vienna, erected between 1874 and 1888

The Maria Theresa Monument

1874–13. May 1888

13 May 1888 saw the unveiling of a large monument situated between the two Court Museums as part of the Ringstrasse ensemble. Still one of Vienna’s landmarks, it glorifies Maria Theresa, who sits enthroned, high and mighty above her advisors and generals. The monument depicts Maria Theresa in her best-known aspects, as a mother figure and as an enlightened yet absolutist reformer. Gathered around her as ‘pillars of the throne’ are her chosen political supporters and other contemporary figures.

The monument to Maria Theresa in Vienna, erected between 1874 and 1888