Collection of Arms and Armor (Hofjagd- und Rüstkammer)


The artfully decorated arms, suits of armor and saddles in the Armory in the Imperial Palace bear witness to many centuries of European history. The gold sword of Maximilian II (1527-1576), one of the most beautiful pieces of weaponry in the world, is on display, as is the splendid suit of armor of King Ferdinand of Aragon (1452-1516).

Highly political events such as military campaigns, imperial diets, tributes, coronations and weddings were occasions to create new objects that could be brought to the Collection of Arms and Armor. Almost all western European dynasties are represented with objects from the fifteenth century to the early twentieth century.

The high artistic quality of the objects is due to the representational requirements of the rulers and their vassals. The suits of armor on display are without exception especially made by the most renowned armor makers, who often used designs of such famous artists as Dürer or Holbein for the magnificent etchings.

Wed-Sun 10 am - 6 pm