A tour of historical misconceptions in search of truth. Few ruling families are surrounded by as many myths, legends, and anecdotes as the Austrian imperial house. Outwardly, there is splendor and glory, but what was it like behind the scenes? Katrin Unterreiner delves into many myths surrounding the Habsburgs and questions the most well-known clichés from Maria Theresa to the last Austrian Emperor Karl I, contrasting them with historical reality. Numerous newly discovered sources provide previously unknown and exciting insights into the everyday life of the Habsburgs and offer surprising answers.