A friendship or a scandal at the Batthyánypalais
A few days ago, your SV explorer came across a beautiful portal in Vienna’s city center. This striking entrance is part of the Batthyánypalais, located at Bankgasse 2, with another portal facing Herrengasse. The Batthyány family, originally from Hungary, had the Palais built in the 18th century, and it was later expanded. The family owned it until 1924, after which it served various purposes before being refurbished into an office and residential building.
But beyond its architectural beauty, the Batthyánypalais holds a fascinating connection to Prinz Eugen of Savoy—one that comes with a touch of scandal.
Prinz Eugen and the “Beautiful Lori”
One of the most intriguing figures linked to the Batthyánypalais is Eleonore Batthyány, also known as the “Beautiful Lori.” She was a close friend of Prinz Eugen, a very close friend… According to historian Georg Hamann, rumors swirled that their friendship was more than just platonic. Some even claimed that Prinz Eugen, who had lived in celibacy from the age of 25, was the father of one of her sons. Given the social norms of the time, this was a scandalous rumor. There is no real evidence to support it so it remains a rumor.
Regardless of the gossip, it is well-documented that Prinz Eugen was a frequent guest at the Batthyánypalais, where he and Eleonore would meet several times a week to play cards. In fact, on April 20, 1736, he visited the Palais for a final game—he passed away the very next day.
The Coach That Knew the Way
Prinz Eugen visited Eleonore Batthyány so often that his horses knew the route by heart. His coach would travel from his Winterpalais in Himmelpfortgasse to the Batthyánypalais without direction. This was an essential skill for him and his staff. It was said that Prinz Eugen, his servants, and even the coachman were so old that they would all fall asleep on the way. They would even continue sleeping after arriving at their destination!
So next time you pass by Batthyánypalais, take a moment to admire its elegant portal! And, remember that behind those doors once sat some of Vienna’s most powerful figures, playing cards and sharing stories that have lasted for centuries.
Many more stories await on our tours
Do you love these kind of stories, just as much as we do? Then join our tours in Vienna! Our private tours enable you to choose your preferred theme and explore Vienna your way! You can also join our public tours to explore Vienna’s must-see highlights or hidden gems.
