The regal yet simple exterior of Schönbrunn Palace belies the extraordinary interior. Obviously, you can’t judge a book by its cover. But why is the façade a two-toned shade of yellow? From 1438 until 1806, the banner of the Holy Roman Emperors (who were also members of the Habsburg dynasty) had a golden background. From 1806 until 1918, the flag of the Austrian Habsburg Monarchy and the Austrian Empire had two horizontal stripes: black over yellow. So, it seems fitting the Habsburg’s summer residence would portray their color scheme. It is called Schönbrunner Gelb meaning Schönbrunn Yellow. In the corner of this photo is the 18th century sculpture of Calliope (Kalliope). She was one of the nine Muses in Greek mythology and the patron of poetry.
