After the Siege of Vienna by the Ottomans was broken in 1683, the conquering army of Austrians found sacks of Turkish coffee left behind.  Immediately coffee became a popular drink, and coffeehouses sprang up.  Of course, Ludwig was not a sociable man, and he had no use for internet access.  So instead of heading to his local watering hole, he savored his morning coffee in his very own Moorish Kiosk on the grounds of Linderhof Palace.

Moroccan House at Linderhof

The structure was built for the International Exhibition in Vienna in Paris in 1867.  Ludwig wanted to buy it, but a railroad mogul beat him to the punch.  He had to wait until a little later, when the railroad went bankrupt. The interior is otherworldly, lit mostly by sunlight streaming through stained glass.

Moroccan House Interior

The most distinctive feature is the Peacock Throne.  Unfortunately, tourists are only allowed to peer into the doorway, so it’s hard to say whether the throne was built for comfort.

Ludwig was always dressed impeccably for any occasion.  History does not record what he wore for his jaunts to his favorite morning coffee spot, but I can use my imagination.

Join me next time for further exploration into quirky corners in the art and history of Europe!