Habsburg Austria refers to the territories ruled by the Habsburg dynasty, a powerful royal family in Europe. From the late Middle Ages until the early 20th century, the Habsburgs expanded their influence through strategic marriages and military conquests, creating a vast empire that included regions like Austria, Hungary, and parts of Italy and Czech Republic. The Habsburgs played a significant role in European politics, often serving as Holy Roman Emperors. Their reign saw cultural flourishing, with contributions to art and architecture, exemplified by landmarks such as the Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna. The dynasty's rule ended after World War I, leading to the establishment of the First Austrian Republic.