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Why Empress Sissi Escaped To Venice | On Sissi's Traces | Real Royalty

Real Royalty・23 minutes read

History Hit TV provides ad-free royal history documentaries, similar to Netflix, with a discount available using the code "realroyalty". Empress Elizabeth's time in Venice, marked by her disregard for anti-Austrian sentiments, showcased her affinity for the city over Vienna and her exploration of it undisturbed, leaving a mysterious legacy in Venice with little known about her daily life or diet.

Insights

  • Empress Elizabeth's retreat to Venice in 1861 amid Austria's turmoil marked a significant shift in her behavior, as she displayed a disregard for anti-Austrian sentiments during her stay, contrasting with her earlier more dependent visits to the city.
  • Empress Elizabeth's passion for collecting, especially photographs, not only served as a form of protest against her husband's restrictions but also highlighted her defiance and independence, showcasing a unique aspect of her character that was expressed through her hobbies and interests.

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Recent questions

  • What is History Hit TV and how does it compare to Netflix?

    History Hit TV is a platform that offers ad-free documentaries on Royal history, similar to Netflix. Users can access a wide range of historical content without interruptions from advertisements, focusing specifically on Royal history.

  • How did Empress Elizabeth's visit to Venice in 1861 differ from her earlier trips?

    Empress Elizabeth's visit to Venice in 1861 was marked by her retreat to the city amidst Austria's turmoil, showcasing her independence and disregard for anti-Austrian sentiments. This trip contrasted with her earlier, more official visits, highlighting her evolving approach to travel and exploration.

  • What significant renovation project was completed in Venice in 2019, and who funded it?

    The renovation of the Royal gardens in Venice was completed in 2019, funded by the Generali Group. This project aimed to revitalize the gardens and preserve their historical significance, providing a beautiful and well-maintained space for visitors to enjoy.

  • What are some notable locations in Venice associated with Empress Elizabeth's stay?

    Empress Elizabeth's traces in Venice include stays at Ca' Zenobio degli Armeni and Campo Santo Stefano, showcasing her presence in the city. She also visited the cloister gardens and church facilities during her private appointments, highlighting her exploration of Venice's cultural and historical sites.

  • How did Empress Elizabeth use her passion for collecting as a form of protest against her husband?

    Empress Elizabeth, known for her passion for collecting, particularly photographs, used this hobby as a form of protest against her husband, Emperor Franz Joseph. He did not allow photography as a press medium at court, but Elizabeth's collection showcased her defiance and independence, emphasizing her desire to express herself through her interests and hobbies.

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Summary

00:00

Empress Elizabeth's Royal Retreat in Venice

  • History Hit TV offers ad-free documentaries on Royal history, akin to Netflix.
  • Use the code "realroyalty" for a discount when signing up for History Hit TV.
  • Empress Elizabeth retreated to Venice in 1861 amidst Austria's turmoil.
  • Elizabeth's stay in Venice was marked by her disregard for anti-Austrian sentiments.
  • The Empress's visit to Venice in 1856 contrasted with her later, more independent trips.
  • Elizabeth's preference for Venice over Vienna led to her exploration of the city undisturbed.
  • The renovation of the Royal gardens in Venice was completed in 2019, funded by the Generali Group.
  • Elizabeth's private visits in Venice included official appointments at church facilities.
  • The Empress's stay in Venice included visits to the cloister gardens, highlighting their dual function.
  • The Imperial visitor's traces in Venice include stays at Ca' Zenobio degli Armeni and Campo Santo Stefano.

23:10

Imperial Furniture and Empress Elizabeth in Venice

  • Some pieces of furniture were moved to the Imperial furniture collection in Vienna, while others were given a new shine.
  • A writing desk from around 1850 was part of the marital bedroom furniture of Elizabeth and Franz Joseph, featuring a dropdown front and secret compartments.
  • The grand dining salon in Empress Elizabeth's chambers was renovated and featured a mini version of the famous Milan centerpiece.
  • The attendance of the silver collection was essential wherever the Habsburgs dined to lay the table with necessary items.
  • Empress Elizabeth was rumored to be bulimic, but reports from court ladies and others suggest she ate well and exercised regularly.
  • The Viennese schnitzel is believed to have originated from Venice, where pork meat was fried in breadcrumbs to mimic a decadent gold-dusted dish.
  • Empress Elizabeth's life in Venice remains somewhat mysterious, with little known about her diet or daily activities.
  • The Arsenale in Venice was revitalized by Napoleon and continued to be redeveloped by the Habsburgs, with Franz Joseph seeing himself as a successful employer.
  • Empress Elizabeth spent time with her children in Venice, enjoying gondola rides and visiting the Giardino Eden.
  • A devastating storm in November 2019 caused significant damage in Venice, including to the Hundertwasser garden, but recovery efforts have begun.

46:14

Luxury hotel spa garden; Empress's photo protest.

  • The former botanical garden is now part of the spa area of the luxury hotel die Dogi in Venice, offering a peaceful and unknown garden to explore, contrasting the city's private gardens behind high walls.
  • Empress Elizabeth, known for her passion for collecting, particularly photographs, used this hobby as a form of protest against her husband, Emperor Franz Joseph, who did not allow photography as a press medium at court, showcasing her defiance and independence.
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