Johann Anton

Hans Ulrich’s only son, Johann Anton I, Holy Roman Prince of Eggenberg, studied at the Jesuit University of Graz.  In 1627 he undertook an extensive Grand Tour throughout Europe, accompanied by the Jesuit scholar, Philippe Allegambe. He finally returned to Graz in 1632, immediately concerning himself with the extension of the palace at Graz. Nonetheless, his preferred residences were the Eggenberg townhouse on the Sackstrasse in Graz and the Residence in Český Krumlov.

Johann Anton soon became well-known as the epitome of the noble grand seigneur, due to his intellectual aptitudes, his talent for languages and his urbanity. He was given his first politically important assignment by Ferdinand III in 1637, which allowed him to step out of the shadow of his famous father. After a year of preparation, he undertook a delicate diplomatic mission in 1638 to the papal court in Rome, in order to inform Pope Urban VIII of the Emperor’s ascension to the throne.  He handled his assignment with bravura, making a great stir and attracting the admiration of Roman citizens with two spectacular entrances into the Eternal City. Following various differences of opinion, he was finally able to bring his diplomatic mission to a successful conclusion.

One of Johann Anton I’s important objectives was to attain Reichsstandschaft (a special prerogative of membership in the Imperial diet), something which his father, Hans Ulrich had sought in vain. In 1647 the Emperor granted him the opportunity to purchase the princely county of Gradisca, including the city of Aquileia. In acquiring the county, the Eggenbergs now held lands within the Empire, ensuring them a seat and a vote in the College of Princes at the Imperial Diet. Johann Anton would not live to see the introduction of his house to the Imperial Diet at Regensburg. He died unexpectedly in March 1649. His widow, Princess Anna Maria, née Margravine of Brandenburg-Bayreuth, was assigned the custodianship of the estates inherited by their two sons, Johann Christian and Johann Seyfried.