Christmas market at Belvedere in Vienna, Austria
© Diyana Dimitrova/Alam
Reflecting on Christmas. Christmas market at Belvedere in Vienna
Christmas markets, or 'Weihnachtsdorf,' are one of Europe's oldest Advent events. Our homepage photo shows the Belevedere Christmas market in Vienna from across the Danube River. It takes place against the palatial backdrop of Upper Belvedere, one of two Baroque palaces on the property. This grandiose building dates back to 1717 and was built as a summer residence for Prince Eugene of Savoy. Over Christmas, it serves up a striking backdrop for this bustling market, where couples sip wine beneath its marbled eaves.
If you visit a Christmas market, make the time to stroll and take in all the sights and smells of the season. In Vienna, the architecturally impressive city puts on a fantastic display at Christmas, with lights, decorations and music. Where better to sip mulled wine and enjoy local delicacies while browsing handmade crafts?