The Sisi Dinner – Living History
New on the programm

Kaiserin Elisabeth, affectionately known as “Sisi,” was not only a captivating monarch but also a true pioneer. She was the first woman to maintain her physique through systematic training, stretching, and conditioning. Her palaces featured private gymnasiums, which are considered precursors to the modern fitness studio.

A significant part of her global popularity and the Sisi myth stemmed from the successful 1950s films starring Romy Schneider. These cinematic classics indelibly shaped the Empress’s image and turned her into a pop culture icon that continues to fascinate millions.

Sisi was also an exceptional athlete:

Passionate Equestrian: Raised among horses at Possenhofen Castle, she later had her own riding arena built at Gödöllö Palace, where she practiced haute école dressage. She often disguised herself as a boy, scandalizing the Viennese court but allowing her to pursue her passion. Her daughter Maria Valerie marveled at how her mother could “jump through two hoops” on horseback. Sisi was the only woman in Europe for many years to keep pace in the rigorous fox hunts in England, earning her the title of the “Queen behind the pack.”

Avid Swimmer: Alongside her equestrian exploits, she undertook intensive swim training, swimming for half an hour three times in the sea—fully clothed, as was customary at the time.

Fencing Master: She discovered her passion for fencing later in life (at age 46) in Heidelberg. From then on, she installed training rooms in all her residences and became one of the finest fencers of her era.
Even in poor weather, Elisabeth loved to sail. Only her favorite cow, which she always brought along to drink warm milk for her complexion, seemed less enthusiastic about her sailing adventures.