In the heart of Europe lies a vast empire along the Danube, consisting of two monarchies - the Austrian and the Hungarian. Since 1848, Franz Joseph I has ruled the multi-ethnic state of Austria-Hungary under the title of Emperor, and most Europeans refer to him as the last monarch of the old school. Austria-Hungary is a land of unique diversity and full of opportunities for exciting adventures. At the forefront is the capital Vienna, brimming with culture, joie de vivre, and charm, but there are also other famous cities like the picturesque bridge city of Budapest and the Golden Prague.

Austria-Hungary encompasses the seaports of Fiume and Trieste, Carinthia, Bohemia, Moravia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and even Liechtenstein. As early as 1815, far-reaching impulses for all of Europe originated from there, where "the Congress dances," a unique lifestyle develops, and the coffeehouse culture and Viennese operetta emerge. However, Austria-Hungary is also a shadow of its former self, already enveloped by the shadows of transience and entangled in a desperate struggle against both external and internal enemies.

This book provides players and game masters with a comprehensive overview of the Danube monarchy over 268 pages: its history is covered as well as the imperial territories and important cities. Additionally, information on society, political structures, art and culture, food and drink, transportation, industry and economy, and education is included. All aspects of the country are addressed here. Thanks to integrated excerpts from contemporary texts, a richly atmospheric overview of the countries along the Danube is created.

Over 200 images, drawings, illustrations, maps, and plans, as well as a double-sided printed color poster map featuring a map of the dual monarchy and a city plan.