Day Three: Wednesday, May 16
The most personally impressive detail I learned about the history of Vienna was that of the nobility -- specifically the Hapsburg family. The castles with their ornate architecture and decor, in addition to massive size made for an impressive spectacle. The details about how those living in the castles were able to have separate winter and summer homes, as well as specific details pertaining to each room in the Albertina were very interesting and rather surprising.
Something else impressive that I noticed about Vienna after today's tour was the influence of various cultures on the art styles of the city. In the Albertina, we were able to observe various styles of art ranging from classical to contemporary, and during our tour of the heart of Vienna, we were able to see various architectural styles, such as imperial style, a modern style with few frills, and Roman styles. Additionally, the churches were very impressive to me. In the large churches, gold-trimmed walls, elaborate paintings, high ceilings, massive organs, and beautiful chandeliers in contrast with ancient-looking pews well worn from prayer had a sizable impact on me. However, in Vienna's oldest church, Saint Ruprecht's, the antiquity of its contents made me feel the history behind it. Both types of churches were awe-inspiring in their own ways, and a truly impressive and worthwhile element of the tour.
Overall, Albertina was a unique and valuable experience. The history behind each room and its contents was incredible, and the variety of art forms it contained was equally impressive. The amount of diversity and uniqueness among the Albertina's displays made it a truly great experience.
After meeting a new person today, I learned from her that some things to love about Vienna is the friendliness of the people (which I have experienced several times in restaurants, train or bus stations, stores, and more), the beauty of the city as a whole, the proud sense of nationalism, and the various cultural foods.