History of Style

Ludwigsburg Palace is characterized by three consecutive stylistic periods.

The once flat-roofed Alte Corps de Logis (Old Main Building) with a very Italian appearance is linked with loosely connected galleries, pavilions and side wings. It is a prime example of the tradition of the Italian-influenced Austro-Bohemian architecture of the early 17th century.

Typical features of the baroque style of Eberhard Ludwig's era are:

• The so-called Toilette-Zimmer (Toilet Room) of the Duke in the Neuer Hauptbau (New Main Building)
• Spiel- und Jagdpavillon (Games and Hunting Pavilions)
• The staircase in the Riesenbau (Building of the Giants)
• The Hofkirche (Court Chapel)

The young Duke Carl Eugen attempted to change the interior of the spacious baroque palace to suit his taste. The often ponderous splendor in the era of Eberhard Ludwig gives way to the lighter rococo décor.

Typical decorations of the rococo period can be seen in:

• Ordenskapelle (Order Chapel)
• Duke's private suite of rooms on the top floor

In the period around 1775 the prevailing taste changes. There is a gradual transition from the light décor of the rococo period to the linearity of Classicism. In Ludwigsburg Palace this style is primarily found in the Neuer Hauptbau.

Under King Friedrich, the style of the French Empire makes its appearance. It draws its imperial aura from Egyptian and Greco-Roman examples.

Typical decorations of Classicism and the Empire style are:

• Marmorsaal (Marble Hall)
• The King's Audienzzimmer (Audience Chamber)
• The Queen's bedroom
• The King's library