Named for Emperor Joseph II, Josefsplatz is one of Vienna’s most splendid courtyards. This beautiful spot is framed on three sides by the hugely impressive palaces Hofburg, Palffy, and Pallavicini. Also visible from the square are such culturally and historically important offices as the Augustinian Church, the Austrian National Library, and the Redoutensaal (Redoute Hall), where elegant masked balls were held.
In the center of the space is the magnificent Joseph II Monument, sculpted by Franz Anton Zauner around 1800. This piece likens the ruler to a Roman conqueror such as Marcus Aurelius, in line with the family's belief that it is descended from Roman emperors.