Global Treasures: Vienna

Television Director: Ullman, Frank

Producer: Scarson, Peter O.

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Catalogue Number: GTR-DVD-1028

UPC: 879061006272

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Global Treasures - History's Most Protected Monuments - Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live today, and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. Places as unique and diverse as the wilds of East Africa's Serengeti, the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Baroque cathedrals of Latin America make up our world's heritage. Join us as we explore one of these protected monuments.

The monumental construction of the Stefansdom, with its magnificent German Gothic tower, is the symbol of Vienna. Located in the heart of Europe, this glorious, once-imperial city is today a fascinating melting pot of both old and new.

The Hofburg is a large complex of multifarious buildings of various architectural styles that date from between the 13th and 19th centuries. This was the Viennese residence and legislative centre of the Habsburg Dynasty, the emperors of the "Holy Roman Empire" of the German nation. The Silver Chamber contains a remarkable variety of opulent exhibits that depict the magnificent regal life of the past.

A mighty cupola extends to a height of 30 metres over what was once the Imperial Court and is today surely the most opulent library in the world, Austria's National Library.

In 1569, Emperor Franz Joseph was born in the magnificent royal residence, the Schonbrunn Palace. More than 1700 beautifully-maintained rooms afforded the large imperial family much freedom of movement, and its magnificent interior decor is one of the most lavish of its time. The Palace Grounds contain the outstanding Neptune Fountain and also the charming Schonbrunn Zoo, the oldest animal enclosure in the world.