Seven window axes. That’s all you see from Kärntner Strasse. But the Palais Grundemann Esterhazy is larger than it appears. Turn around. Look at the Annagasse side. Twelve window axes reveal its true scale. This is the main facade. Here stands the entrance portal with the Esterhazy coat of arms. Welcome to the Palais Grundemann Esterhazy a building with a rich and surprisingly dramatic history.
This grand palace didn’t spring up overnight. It started in the early 15th century. Two separate buildings were combined. This unified structure then changed hands. In 1684 Adam Antonius Grundemann von Falkenberg bought it. His son then likely built the palace we see today. It remained in his family’s possession for generations. This lasted until 1767. That is when Franz Freiherr von Harrucker acquired it.
The Palais Grundemann Esterhazy’s appearance underwent a significant transformation at the end of the 18th century. This happened when it belonged to the Károlyi family. They redesigned the facade. A balcony was added giving the building its present-day Baroque elegance. The interior however changed considerably later. In 1871 Count Moritz Esterházy purchased the Palais Grundemann Esterhazy. He then had the interior completely redesigned.
Sadly disaster struck in 1968. A devastating fire nearly destroyed the entire building. Imagine the smoke the flames the chaos. But the Palais Grundemann Esterhazy survived. It was painstakingly restored. It was later transformed into Casino Cercle Wien. This casino has been expanded several times. It remains there today.
Today little remains of the original Empire-style furnishings. Most rooms are decorated with modern art. Yet the Palais Grundemann Esterhazy stands tall. It speaks of survival adaptation and continued grandeur. It is a testament to the resilience of history. It’s a remarkable site. One that embodies the blend of Vienna’s past and present. It’s a story written in stone and reflected in its ever-evolving interior.