A small town with only 120,000 inhabitants, but there was so much interesting here: the Winter Olympic Games were held twice, the “Tournament of 4 Hills” and other sports competitions are held annually. Exactly at Innsbruck(Innsbruck (German) - in the German spelling exactly 2 letters "n", in Russian - one) one of the symbols of glamor was born - Swarovski crystals. And also, mountains are visible from almost anywhere in the city, they are the main attraction of Innsbruck, which served the city about the same service that oil served Dubai, providing it with wealth and prosperity.
So, below is a description of if you happen to be here either not in the ski season, or you want, in addition to the slopes and lifts, a little different entertainment.
Innsbruck old town
Old city Is the most beautiful part of anyone European city, and Innsbruck- not an exception. The most picturesque streets start from the Hofgarten city park and intertwine in one block, stretching along the embankment of the Inn River. A heart Old town of Innsbruck- This cathedral of st jacob- powerful, as befits the main religious building, an old building with two towers. Now, in the summer of 2016, part of the facade is under reconstruction, but this does not spoil the impression at all.
Cathedral of Saint James
If you walk from the Cathedral of St. James along Pfargasse Street, you will see another attraction of Innsbruck, which for some reason is almost the main one - House with a golden roof... Not to say that this is something epic, especially since the golden roof is not for the whole house, but only for one of the upper balconies. The golden roof of the balcony was made by order of Emperor Maximilian, 5 centuries ago - it was with such a "modest, but tasteful" loggia that he preferred to watch knightly tournaments and other events taking place on the square in front of this very house. The main disappointment is that the roof is not gold, but copper, covered with gilding 🙂 Now in this house is the museum of Emperor Maximilian.
View of the House with a Golden Roof from the City Tower
In our opinion, the houses on both sides of the Herzog-Friedrich-Straße, which starts from houses with a golden roof... Their facades are painted with patterns and look very festive and beautiful. There are many souvenir shops on this street with pastries, speck and postcards with Alpine views.
Graceful houses on Duke Friedrich Street
Duke Friedrich Straße passes into Maria Theresa street- the central pedestrian street of the city. View of her perspective from Column of Saint Anne in the foreground and mountains on the horizon - the most classic view of Innsbruck.
Maria Theresa street
Innsbr viewpointsuk
Most popular observation deck of Innsbruck is the top City towers located on Duke Friedrich Strasse, close to Houses with a golden roof... The tower is not very high, only 56 meters, but this is enough for it to rise above the rest of the buildings Innsbruck and from it the city and the surrounding mountains were perfectly visible. The cost of visiting the observation deck of the city tower - 3 euros.
City tower
To be honest, we didn't even spend this money, because we accidentally found another option for a free observation deck: almost opposite City towers there is shopping center on the 7th floor of which there is a bar "360" - a small round-shaped establishment with panoramic windows. Around the entire circumference, the bar is surrounded by a path about 50 cm wide.Go on it, go around in a circle and look at Innsbruck, you can absolutely free, without even going to the bar (although it is quite cozy, we simply did not have time to stay here).
Have Innsbruck besides these, there is one more, miraculous and very impressive observation deck , but we will talk about it below.
Hofburg Palace Innsbruck
Yes, yes, in Innsbruck as well as in, there is a luxurious former residence of the Habsburgs - the Hofburg. It is, of course, not as immense as its Vienna counterpart - there are only 25 rooms in the Innsbruck Hofburg, while in Vienna there are more than 2000. Despite its modest size, Hofburg Innsbruck possesses no less rich decoration - ancient sculptures, snow-white facades, spacious halls (the most impressive is the Hall of the Giants). In general, lovers of history and everyday life of the powerful of this world, it will be very interesting.
Hall in the Hofburg, Innsbruck
Cost of visiting the Hofburg in Innsbruck- 9 euros, address: Rennweg 1, 6020 Innsbruck
Museum of Tyrolean Culture
Innsbruck- the capital of Tyrol, and Tyrol is the most non-Austrian Austria 🙂 Tyroleans in Austria are like Catalans in Spain, Bavarians in Germany or Tuscans in Italy - in general, a very distinctive people, not like other inhabitants of the country. Either a harsh land (it is in Tyrol that is the highest and most impassable), or proximity to Germany had an impact, but the fact remains that the Tyrolean culture differs from the Austrian one, and in Innsbruck An entire museum is dedicated to her.
Museum of Tyrolean Culture has a reputation as one of the best folklore museums in Europe. Here are collected household items, costumes, handmade jewelry from Tyroleans. Yes, it's not super exciting, but cute, cozy and quite interesting.
Tuition fees for the Museum of Tyrolean Culture- 10 euros, address: MUSEUMSTRASSE 15, 6020 INNSBRUCK
Inn river embankment
Inn river embankment
For some reason, I really wanted to highlight this place as a separate attraction - the noise of a mountain river, colorful, bright houses along the banks, definitely uplifting, fresh mountain air, the Sun reflecting in muddy water - walk along the embankment of the Inn River, spend a little time - you will not regret ...
Swarovski Crystal Museum
"The best friends of girls are diamonds" - the Swarovski family at the end of the 19th century slightly corrected this statement, "making friends" the girls also with crystal and cubic zirconia. Nowadays Swarovski rhinestones have become synonymous with glamor, high-quality jewelry, in which ladies from high society will also look dignified.
To the 100th anniversary (1995) of the Swarovski house, in one of the suburbs Innsbruck – Wattens, built a museum "Worlds of Swarovski crystals"... Not only is the exposition of the museum remarkable, but also its design - only one pond with a fountain in the shape of a huge head is worth something. Inside, the radiance is such that it is better for the especially impressionable to come here in sunglasses - graceful Swarovski chandeliers, crystal dresses, a shining and magical crystal room.
Fountain of the Swarovski Crystal Museum
The feeling of magic here is similar to the one you feel when you go inside the giant glowing New Year's ball, exhibited in Moscow on Okhotny Ryad during the New Year holidays - you want to make a wish right away 🙂
Ticket price for the Swarovski Museum- 19 euros, address: Kristallweltenstraße 1 6112 Wattens
Information about exhibitions and events can be found on the website . Here, on the website, you can see the schedule of shuttle buses that run from Innsbruck to the museum.
Nordkette - the main peak of Innsbruck
Here it is, the cherry on the sights cake Innsbruck, the same, miraculous viewpoint, which we promised to talk about above.
Nordkette- This mountain range, consisting of several peaks, which can be climbed very quickly using the "Nordekettenbahnen" funicular. Its lower station is in the city center, not far from Hofburg, it is very difficult not to find it, because throughout the central part Innsbruck signs "Nordkette" were installed, leading to the funicular.
The lift has 2 stations:
The first is the Seegrube peak (2000 meters), the second is Hafelekar (2300 meters). Actually, on Hafelekar there is an observation deck and several establishments where you can have a snack. Sometimes, on the tops Nordkette events are held - sports or entertainment. And in winter, it is this place that becomes the busiest in Innsbruck due to the influx of skiers.
View of Innsbruck from Nordkette
One quick tip - don't plan on climbing Nordkette in bad weather. During heavy cloudiness and rain, no beautiful views will simply be seen, and you will be wasting a rather large amount. The cost of climbing Nordkette- 27 euros round trip.
Where to eat in Innsbruck
We always approach this issue very scrupulously 🙂 We study reviews of restaurants, go to many - somewhere the atmosphere is not very good, somewhere they serve for a long time and, without waiting, we leave to look for another establishment.
For those who want to eat not only in good location, but also delicious, we recommend Innsbruck turn off the streets of Maria Theresa and Duke Friedrich - there are very cute cafes with a good view, but it is better in them during the day just to drink tea / coffee and take a break in front of a new attraction, but for a hearty lunch or dinner, go to one of the establishments on the neighboring streets ...
Innsbruck street where the Tiroler Bauernkeller restaurant is located
We really liked the small restaurant - here it is cozy and tasty, and as it should be in terms of local flavor- everything, from the interior to the dishes, takes you to that ancient pre-ski Tyrol - the kingdom of shepherds and villages with several houses lost in the mountains. There is a very large selection of meat dishes, in particular - 100,500 variants of cordon blue (meat stuffed with some kind of filling - ham, cheese or something else). Well, and one more yummy of common Austrian cuisine - potato salad, which is also very good here.
Strudel-Cafe Kroell met our expectations - really very tasty and a very large selection of desserts, good coffee and delicious tea + cozy atmosphere. The place, admittedly, is popular, but at the same time romantic - there are a lot of local couples here.
Innsbruck knows what girls love - Swarovski crystals and delicious desserts 🙂
Another interesting gastronomic fact about Tyrolean cuisine is that there is no Tyrolean pie. Yes, no matter what they write on pies in Russian supermarkets, in Tyrol itself they have not heard of this dessert.
Conclusion
This is how he is, Innsbruck... Even in summer, there are tourists here, because the mountains are impressive at any time of the year, and when sports tourism can be combined with the cultural - so it's generally wonderful. But you know, it still seems to us that it is better to come here in winter - the atmosphere of Christmas and New Year is too strong here - and the city is incredibly decorated, and it is covered with snow, and the mountains around them glitter festively with their peaks - a real fairy tale.
PS: If the article was helpful for you, you can thank me by booking your hotel for travel by going to Booking
02DecInnsbruck attractions
Austrian Innsbruck is an alpine city with rich traditions and ancient history Tyrol. Innsbruck and its sights are interesting to see at any time of the year and in any weather: the winter is not severe; the average annual temperature is 8.25 ° Celsius. The Tyrolean Alps, the Inn River, recreate the fabulous look of this area. The city is very ancient, there are many palaces, 11 churches, 5 monasteries, a Jesuit college, Tyrolean National Museum(Ferdinandeum), the University of Leopold-Franz, founded in 1677 with a library, glass painting workshops, a mosaic workshop, factories (spinning and machine), in addition Innsbruck is surrounded by the most famous Austrian ski resorts and places for various winter skiing with beautiful modern infrastructure.
From the history of the area
(from Wikipedia and the encyclopedic dictionary of F.A. Brockhaus and I.A.Efron):
- There were ancient Germanic tribes - the Allemanns, later the Ostrogoths and the descendants of the Bavarians.
- The first mention of the settlement (in ancient times it was called Ad Oenum, Oeni pons or Oeni pontum) - in 1180
- 1234 - awarded the status of a city by Duke Otto II of Andechs-Meran, who is considered its founder.
- with 1363 the area is ruled by the Habsburgs. Weapons masters were resettled here, large manufactories were founded. 1508 - Maximilian I was crowned here, during which Innsbruck became an important center of politics and culture in Europe. minted the first pan-European thaler,
- Until the fall of the monarchy, Tyrol was ruled by the Habsburgs. 1665 - the line of the Tyrolean Habsburgs is interrupted, the power passes to the Viennese line of this kind. Emperor Leopold I founded a university in 1669 in the city.
- After hostilities between Austria and France in the late 17th - early 18th centuries, Tyrol was transferred by Napoleon I to Bavaria.
- Congress of Vienna in 1814 returns the Tyrolean terrain to Austria
- Hitler incorporated Austria into Germany in 1938, independence was established in 1945 and legalized in 1955.
- Currently Innsbruck, Innsbruck (German. Innsbruck, bav. Innschbruck, Tyrol. Innschpruckh) Is a resort and tourist European center. This is very sports city: hosted the Winter Olympics twice -1964, 1976, major international competitions and various events are constantly held at its stadiums.
Best Route - Innsbruck Attractions
through the Old Town (city center): click on the map to see the whole route
- The route is best started from the Hauptbahnhof(Main Train Station, opened in 1853, changed several times ) , there are many public transport links to get to the urban areas of Innsbruck and the suburbs- from the station we move along the street. Saluner Strasse;
- Landhausplazt - the Triumpforte (Arc de Triomphe) stands out here - installed at the entrance to Maria-Terezia-Strasse in 1765 - in honor of the wedding of Archduke Leopold II and Princess Maria Louise. Before the wedding of her son, the husband of Maria Theresa, Franz I Stephen of Lorraine, died - this monument with marble reliefs immortalized two events: a happy marriage, grief for the emperor. If we look at the Arch in detail, then here you can see bas-reliefs dedicated to the Habsburg dynasty, state emblems and two angels: on the north side of the arch - a joyful angel, on the south - an angel in grief and sorrow.
- Maria-Terezia-Strasse (St. Maria-Theresia-Strasse): Palace of the Fuggers and Taxis, the old town hall, the Annasaule (St. Anne's) column - the alley is called the Archduchess Maria Theresia (Garsburg dynasty).
This is a pedestrian street, one of the main streets of Innsbruck, where there are always a lot of tourists. The main monument is the Column of St. Anne - 1706,
liberation of the territory of Tyrol from the Bavarian army on the day of St. Anne. At the top of the obelisk is the statue of the Virgin Mary, below are the figures of four saints especially revered in Tyrol: St. Anne, the mother of the Virgin Mary, St. Casian, the founder of the ancient diocese of Saben, St. George, the patron saint of Tyrol, St. Vigil, one of the first bishops of Trento, which is part of the titrol.
- Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse (Duke Friedrich St.): vaulted gallery - City Hall (German: Stadtturm- built in the middle of the 15th century to observe the approaches to the city). Initially, a gabled roof was installed on the town hall, surrounded by turrets. Later, in the 70s. XX century, the roof was replaced, a dome was made. At the very top there is an observation deck, which can be reached by breaking 150 steps, the height is 56 meters. The Town Hall is open from May to October: from 10.00 to 17.00, July-August until 18.00. In cold weather: usually from December 25 to January 06 from 10.00 to 16.00 hours.
- Hebling Haus (house of Helblings) - a mansion with a luxurious facade (Rococo style) was built in the 15th century during the reign of Frederick IV, was rebuilt several times: the modern look - from 1730, the facade is decorated with stucco moldings according to the project of the architect A. arches on the ground floor. Until today, the handsome house remains a house with living quarters.
- Golden Roof (German: Goldenes Dachl)
- small in size, it is on the balcony of the House-Residence of the Tyrolean kings, built together with the house in the 15th century by order of the Archduke Frederick IV. The name comes from the gold-colored tiles used for the roof of the outer balcony of the front façade. The history of the design of the balcony came from the hobby of Emperor Maximilian I - a passion for knightly tournaments, which were held on the square, and the emperor watched them from a separate balcony, which was supposed to be distinguished by luxury. The roof was covered with 2,657 copper tiles covered with a thin layer of gold. Inside the residence there is a museum, where personal belongings of the ruling dynasty at that time, furniture and household items are presented. Nearby is one of the oldest restaurants (here and a guest house) Innsbruck "Golden Eagle" "Goldener Adler" - address Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse 6, opened in 1390.
It is interesting for the fact that during its existence very famous personalities have visited it: Emperor Maximilian, Goethe, Mozart, Heine, Pogania.
The menu offers an interesting delicacy: reindeer stew "Hirschragout" served with pickled beets.
- Near the city wall and the old house built in 1494 - the town hall in the Gothic style. In front of the town hall there is a 1809 monument dedicated to the fighters for the liberation of Tyrol. In the building of the town hall there is a restaurant - tavern "Ottoburg" (Herzog-Friedrich-Straße 1), you can also dine and see the historical interiors.
- We return to the Golden Roof and if you go a little forward - Domplatz (Cathedral Square) - Dom zu St. Jakob (St. Jacob's Cathedral)
Innsbruck Cathedral - built in 1180-1191, was destroyed twice (in 1689 - an earthquake, bombing during the Second World War). On the roof there is an image of a rider on a horse. Every day at noon from the bell tower of the cathedral you can hear the ringing of 48 bells! Inside the cathedral, the tombstones of Maximilian III and Eugen of Austria attract attention. In the center of the altar is the main attraction of the cathedral - an icon dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the work of the German icon painter Lucas Cranach the Elder. The walls and ceiling are painted by the Azam brothers, master artists. Known at the time, the brothers Bruder Asam-Egid Kvirina and Cosmas Damiana represented the generation of Germans trained in the baroque craft in Rome.
Cosmas_D_Asam (from Wikipedia) 
Egid_Q_Asam (from Wikipedia) They were pupils of Gian Lorenzo Bernini. The Church of St. John of Nepomuk in Munich (built 1733-1746, Azamkirche - named after the brothers) is the main masterpiece of their work. More details in addition: http://www.liveinternet.ru/users/5153342/post394970013
- Herzog- Otto -Strasse- st. Herrengasse: The Congress House is now a modern building, built in 1973. At this place in 1628, under Leopold V, there was a palace opera house - the largest European theater at that time, later rebuilt, customs was located here, then meetings, congresses, exhibitions were held. During the Second World War, the building was destroyed.
- Reneweg Strasse(st.Rennweg) - Kaiserliche Hofburg (Hofburg),
the complex includes: an imperial palace with palace chambers, a park area. Year of construction - 1460 under Duke Sigmund the Bogat, before this period there were defensive structures. Under Maximilian I (XV - XVI century), the construction of the palace was completed. After the abolition of the monarchy, the complex was transferred to the state. Nowadays, official events are periodically held in the Hofburg. In the part of the palace there is a museum. Open: 9.00-17.00 from November to the end of April. Closed: Sundays and public holidays. The decoration inside the palace is interesting, for more details - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEnRXxAd5B8
- Hofkirche is an imperial church with a black marble sarcophagus of Emperor Maximilian, around 28 bronze statues around - the ancestors of the ruler, built in 1553, built by order of Emperor Ferdinand I for the mausoleum of his grandfather Maximilian I. Above is a sculpture of Emperor Maximilian himself. However, the body of the emperor is not in the sarcophagus; it is buried in a small place in Lower Austria. Another attraction is the Silver Chapel - added to the church in 1578 - the bodies of Archduke Ferdinand II, as well as his wife, are buried in it.
- Between the imperial palace, Tyrolean state theater(Tiroler Landestheater) and a chapel with a silver altar in a small square is the first monument in the Alps, erected in the center of an interesting fountain: a horseman sitting on a reared equestrian statue. This monument was erected to Archduke Leopold V, ruler of Tyrol (1619-1632 reign) during his lifetime.
- Universitet Strasse(Universitetsstraße): here is the Tyrolean National Art Museum with a rich collection, the building of the old university, the Jesuit church (Jesuitenkirche -site http://www.jesuitenkirche-innsbruck.at), also known as the Church of the Holy Trinity (Heilige Dreifaltigkeit)
- known for bells, one of them (Schützenglocke), located in the northern tower of the temple, weighs about 9 thousand kilograms, with a diameter of 248 cm, made in 1959. It can be heard on the days of big holidays and on Fridays at three o'clock in the afternoon, celebrating thus the time of the death of Jesus Christ at the crucifixion. It is the official university temple of Innsbruck with services in 20 languages. The main treasures inside: the tombs of Duke Leopold V and Claudia Medici, his wife.
- st. Silgasse - Muzeum Strasse(Muzeumstrasse): Tyrolean local history museum Ferdenandeum - st. Wilhelm-Grail-Straße - pl. Bozner Platz - in the center of the square is a magnificent monument, at the foot there is a fountain, installed at the end of the 19th century to Duke Rudolf IV (a representative of the Habsburg dynasty), who during his short reign (1358-1365) significantly changed the structure of Austria-Tyrol became part of Austria.
- We return to the main railway station, which is conveniently connected to the nearest European cities
The duration of the walk will be about two hours, without detailed sightseeing.
On the eve of Christmas and New Year, Easter, the city is transformed: on Market square the main festivities take place. Here you can buy holiday gifts, local souvenirs, Tyrolean delicacies to the sound of rhythmic Tyrolean music.
- Children are interested in visiting the zoo. It is considered the highest mountain in Europe (Alpenzoo). Here, for the animals of the Alps, they tried to create a natural habitat. Interest is attracted by wolves, ibex, bears, eagles, and even river otters. How to visit: http://www.alpenzoo.at/en/visitor-information/plan-your-visit
- On the outskirts of the city of Innsbruck is the beautiful Ambras Castle. This is the former residence of Archduke Ferdinand II. who was a great connoisseur of art. part of his rich collection can be seen here. Directions and opening hours: http://www.schlossambras-innsbruck.at/en/visit/besucherinformation/access-contact/. The castle hosts early music festivals and Renaissance themed festivals.
In the city and its environs there is a discount tourist map"Insburg card", which allows us to save tourists when visiting attractions and various cultural events and when traveling to public transport... These cards can be bought at hotels, tourist offices and special kiosks located close to public transport.
How to save money on hotels? We prefer a search engine. He selects discounts simultaneously on 70 booking sites, including Booking.
How to get to Innsbruck?
The airport is located four kilometers west of the city center. Direct flights to Innsbruck are better in advance. Bus line F runs from the airport to the city center, to Maria-Terezia-Strasse, three to four times an hour.
During the holidays, Innsbruck attractions are one of the best routes for traveling.
The main sights of Innsbruck concentrated in historic center city, which is easy to get around on foot in 3 hours. Until you have to go by transport.
If you plan to visit as many attractions as possible, you can purchase a tourist ticket for Innsbruck - Innsbruck card. It is available for 24, 48 and 72 hours (conditions differ depending on the days - for 24 hours only Innsbruck, then also the surroundings, including the Swarovski Crystal Museum). Cost: 24 hours: € 39, 48 hours: € 48, 72 hours: € 55, children - 50% discount.
The main attractions of Innsbruck:
Also do not miss the opportunity to climb the city center, from the panoramic platform of which you can admire beautiful views to the center of Innsbruck.
"Golden Roof"
In the middle of the picturesque old town, this building is a classic Austrian mix of Gothic and Baroque, which stands out from the others with a significant balcony with a golden roof, which gave the building its name.
Emperor Maximilian ordered the addition of a luxurious bay window to the former residence of Duke Frederick IV on the occasion of his marriage to Bianca Maria Sforza of Milan. This building with 2,657 gilded copper tiles was the center of Europe at that time.
Inside the building today is the memorial museum of Emperor Maximilian I (1459 - 1519), one of the brightest and most influential personalities in Europe - “ Museum Golden Roof". was the favorite city of the emperor.
Maria-Theresien-Strasse
One of the main streets of the old town, with numerous shops and cafes, a wonderful example of Baroque architecture against the backdrop of a grandiose panorama of the Nordkette Alpine Range.
This territory is already beyond the boundaries of the old city. In the 1300s, there were only a few peasant houses here in the New Town. The old town was fenced off and separated by a defensive fortress and could only be entered through the St. Jorgen gate. But after a few years, the nobles began to populate this territory. The original houses were rebuilt during the Baroque era, turning into splendid palaces. Among them, special attention should be paid to the Gumpa Palace, where the Tyrol administration is now located, as well as the Trapp Palace opposite with a beautiful courtyard.
Several attractions are lined up along the street: Anna's Column, George's Chapel in the Landhouse building and the Arc de Triomphe.
Annasäule
Anne's graceful Baroque column adorns Maria-Theresien-Strasse. She is also known in Innsbruck as the statue of Eros in London. The pillar is a sculpture of the Virgin Mary, installed on a Corinthian column, the base of which is surrounded by Saints Virgil, George, Anna and Cassianus. The statue was erected in 1706 to commemorate the withdrawal of the Bavarian army in 1703, which invaded during the War of Spanish Succession.
Triumphal Arch
This magnificent arch at the end of Maria-Theresien-Strasse was built in honor of the marriage of the son of the Austrian Empress Maria Theresia Leopold II to the Spanish princess Maria Ludovica. The Arc de Triomphe is modeled on a similar arch in V. From here, Maria-Theresien-Strasse becomes Leopoldstrasse.
Hofburg
Hofburg Imperial Palace. Once upon a time the rulers of Tyrol lived here.
The history of the palace dates back to the Middle Ages, when Archduke Sigmund "The Rich", Count of Tyrol, ordered the construction of a medieval fortress. His successor, Emperor Maximilian I, expanded it. And only by order of Maria Theresa (reigned 1740-1780), the fortress was rebuilt into a palace of the Viennese rococo court style. In this form, he has come down to our days.
Maria Theresa visited Innsbruck only twice: on her way in 1739 and in 1765 at the wedding of her son Leopold II with the Spanish princess Maria Ludovica. The marriage was overshadowed by the death of her husband, Franz Stefan of Lorraine. By order of the Empress, the room in which he died was rebuilt into a chapel.
The Hofburg currently houses Museum, so you can visit the luxurious halls of the palace: the Giant (ceremonial) hall with portraits of the children of Maria Theresa and her husband, the personal imperial chambers, the chapel, etc.
There is a courtier next to the palace Hofgarten park.
Every Sunday there is a so-called “family excursion”, in which children, teenagers (up to 19 years old) and two accompanying adults can take part free of charge.
Hofkirche
The Imperial Church - a memorial in honor of Emperor Maximilian I is the most significant of its kind in Europe. This is a magnificent example of European court art, among the masters of which are Albrecht Durer, Peter Fischer the Elder, Alexander Colin and others.
According to Maximilian's idea, this church was supposed to be a political monument of the Holy Roman Empire, the successor of the traditions of which was the house of the Habsburgs.
Construction was completed 80 years after the start of work, already under Archduke Ferdinand II.
The extensive burial structure consists of a cenotaph in the central nave of the church with the kneeling figure of the emperor and 24 reliefs on the sarcophagus with motifs from his life. On either side of the nave and at the entrance to the choir, 28 of the 40 planned statues of the emperor's ancestors are taller than human.
On the right is the Renaissance organ by Ebert from Ravensburg; this organ is ranked among the five most famous organs in the world and the largest surviving organ in Austria in its original form.
- Opening hours: Mon - Sat 9 - 17, Sun and holidays 12:30 - 17:00.
- Entrance: via Volkskunstmuseum from Universitätsstraße 2.
- adults - € 5.00
- Children from 6 years old, adolescents, students and seniors - € 4.
- Excursion supplement - € 2.00
Cathedral of St. Jacob (Dom zu St. Jakob)
This powerful cathedral with two towers has become an integral part of the city's views. It is located northwest of the Hofburg Palace, on the site of a former Gothic church. It is one of the finest examples of temple baroque architecture.
The construction of the cathedral lasted from 1717 to 1724. Inside, it is worth paying attention to the masterpiece of Lucas Cranach the Elder "Our Lady", ceiling frescoes and stucco moldings made by the Azam brothers. In the cathedral, the "Bell chime for the sake of peace" (carillon) is heard.
Among other attractions, do not miss the tombstone of Archduke Maximilian III, Grand Master of the Teutonic Order by K. Gras (1620).
Working hours:
- October 26 - May 1: Mon - Sat 10:15 - 18:30, Sun 12:30 - 18:30.
- May 2 - October 25: Mon - Sat 10:19 - 19:30, Sun 12:30 - 19:30.
Basilica Wilten
This parish church is a popular pilgrimage site and is one of the main values of Innsbruck. According to legend, even Roman legionnaires worshiped the icon of the Virgin Mary in this place.
When the old church almost collapsed from time to time, in 1751-56 a new one was built in its place. The work was supervised by the architect-priest Franz de Paula Penz based on the sketches of Josef Stapf (Füssen).
The interior of the church is done in soft pastel colors with traditional Baroque gilding and magnificent stucco molding in the Rococo style.
- Haymongasse 6b, AT-6020 Innsbruck
Ambras Castle
One of the main attractions of Innsbruck. The history of Ambras Castle is connected with the name of Archduke Ferdinand II (1529-1595), who patronized art and culture as the true ruler of the Renaissance. He founded his own museum with magnificent exhibits, for which the museum halls with the most modern technical equipment of that time were built in the lower fortress.
The capital of Tyrol, a cozy, charming and colorful postcard town of Innsbruck is neatly paved in a natural valley between the ridges mountain range Nordkette. Innsbruck is one of the most visited Alpine cities by tourists. The reason for its well-deserved popularity is its proximity to ski resorts (the best in Europe, do not forget!), An abundance of attractions for all tastes - from the amazing Museum of Bells to the pompous Hofburg Palace - and Austrian service in hotels, restaurants and indeed everywhere - the standard of service, which has become almost synonymous with quality. In between "races" on the sights of Innsbruck, we recommend going for a cup of hot chocolate in chamber coffee shops with the indispensable fluffy blankets on the street chairs. And when they have all been explored, do not neglect the opportunity to travel around the fabulous Tyrol.
The first thing that tourists want to see in Innsbruck is an elaborately decorated balcony called the Golden Roof.
Sights of Innsbruck: photos with names and descriptions
Innsbruck architecture
Architectural landmarks are the first thing you pay attention to in a new place. History was very favorable to Innsbruck: for centuries this city was the ancestral nest of the Habsburg dynasty, which, like all self-respecting (and respected people) monarchs, sought to ennoble their fiefdom and decorate Innsbruck to the envy of neighboring lands. The first thing that tourists want to see in Innsbruck is an elaborately decorated balcony called the Golden Roof. There are over two and a half thousand copper plates covered with gold (the city fathers were intelligent in Austrian), thanks to which the balcony literally blazes in the bright Alpine sun. The acquaintance with Innsbruck continues on Maria Theresa Street - the main pedestrian and commercial artery of the city. The number of boutiques here is equal to the number of restaurants and coffee houses, and all this is "diluted" with sights - the Arc de Triomphe, St. Anne's Column and old baroque mansions.
You should definitely see the city tower of Innsbruck, from which decrees were read and notified exact time over four hundred years - a good example of European foundations! Let's not forget about the modern evidence of the popularity of Innsbruck - the Bergisel ski jump, over which the Olympic flame was lit twice.
Tyrolean spirit
The raison d'être of Ambras Castle is a collection, it seems, of everything that at that time could only be collected, which belonged to Archduke Ferdinand. Among the masterpieces are amazingly preserved samples of complete uniforms of equestrian knights, art objects from all over the world and wonders of the Gallery of Miracles.
Well, you can see how ordinary Tyrolean people lived in the Tyrolean Museum of Folk Art. Carved sleds, cow feeders and bells, casual and festive clothing, and whole rooms from Tyrolean houses from different eras form the core of his collection. With the help of a 3D panorama, you can walk around the surroundings of the museum.
Also Innsbruck is mesmerizing with its nature. You can get acquainted with the magnificent view of the mountain ranges in the 3D circular panorama below.
Cozy and vibrant Innsbruck, harmoniously located among the mountains, has become one of the most visited Alpine cities.
It earned its popularity among tourists not only due to its proximity to many ski resorts, but also for its beauty, valuable attractions and excellent service.
We will tell you about the best sights of Innsbruck with their photos and descriptions and help you choose the best route for your trip.
Innsbruck architecture
One of the most significant medieval architectural monuments in the city is Hofkirche Imperial Church.
The main construction works took place from 1553 to 1563. as conceived by Emperor Ferdinand in memory of his grandfather.
The interior of the church is especially beautiful. In its center is a large sarcophagus, decorated with bas-reliefs depicting the life of the emperor of the Roman Empire. A long church hall is guarded by bronze sculptures of the emperor's ancestors.
The temple was rebuilt many times and now combines Gothic and Renaissance elements in its architecture. The church is located along Universitätstraße.
Hofburg Imperial Palace also deserves your attention. Initially, in the 15th century, a fortress with a tower was built in its place, which in the future became the basis of the royal residence.
Since then, the building of the palace has been completed many times, rebuilt in different styles by different rulers and architects.
Now in its building at Rennweg 1 there is the Alpine Museum.
Ambrass Castle
Also in Innsbruck we advise you to definitely visit castle Ambrass, which was founded by Ferdinand II as a palace museum.
One of the most beautiful and majestic halls of the palace is the Spanish Hall, whose wall paintings depict the Tyrolean rulers.
At the present time, concerts of Ancient Music are held in the castle, there is a cabinet of curiosities with works of art and interesting objects from all over the world.
Near the palace there is beautiful park with forest, rocks, paths, bridges and a waterfall.
The castle is located at Schloßstraße 20.
- Arc de Triomphe(Maria-Theresien-Straße 57);
- Cathedral of St. James(Domplatz);
- "Golden roof"(Herzog-Friedrich-Straße 15);
- City hall(Herzog-Friedrich-Str. 21);
- Tratzberg castle(Tratzberg, Unterinntal Landesstraße);
- Helblinghouse(Herzog-Friedrich-Straße 10);
- St. Nicholas Church(Weiherburggasse 2);
- Church of Worship(Karl-Kapferer-Strase 7a);
- Mentlberg castle(Mentlbergstraße 21);
- Monastery Stift Wilten(Klostergasse 7);
- Weierburg castle(Weiherburggasse 37);
- Schneeberg Castle(Neumatzen 4, Münster);
- Fortress von Montfort(Burggasse 1, Feldkirch);
- Shtams monastery(Stiftshof 1, Stams).
Monuments of the city
The most magnificent monument in the city is Column of St. Anne, which "guards" Innsbruck since 1704.
Column of St. Anne The monument was originally made of red marble, but in 1958, due to the significant destruction of the statue, it was replaced with a copy. The original is at the church of St. Joseph.
The column is very beautiful and majestic. At its top is the figure of the Virgin Mary, and below - the statues of the saints: the mother of the Theotokos Anna, St. George - the patron saint of Tyrol, St. Casian and St. Vigil.
You will see this monument along Maria Theresien Straße.
Also in Innsbruck you can see the following monuments:
- City photo frame;
- Monument to Geology and Minerals on Sq. Adolf Pichler;
- Monument "Father and Son";
- Swarovski Fountain;
- Leopold's Fountain;
- Panorama of the Battle of Bergisel.
Innsbruck museums
Innsbruck has a unique museum that was opened in 1995 and has become popular with tourists. This is about Museum "Swarovski Crystal Worlds".
The entrance to the museum has a very unusual appearance and is a grassy hill in the shape of a giant's head. The area of the museum's underground territory is 4000 square meters.
Here you will see the smallest and largest crystal, you can go inside the crystal and see many fantastic stones of amazing beauty.
The museum is located at Kristallweltenstrasse 1 A.
Museum Swarovski Crystal Worlds. Other museums in the city:
- Augustine Gallery(Seilergasse 17);
- Olympic Games Museum(Herzog-Friedrich-Straße, 15);
- Museum of Tyrolean Folk Art(Museumstraße 26-28);
- Bell Museum Grassmeier(Leopoldstrabe 53);
- Tyrolean Museum of Local Lore(Zeughausgasse 1);
- Ethnographic Museum "Ferdinandeum"(Museumstraße 15);
- Tyrol panorama(Bergisel, 1-2);
- Anatomical Museum(Müllerstrasse, 59);
- Alpine museum(Rennweg 1, Hofburg Palace);
- War museum(Bergisel).
Parks and natural attractions of Innsbruck
Far beyond the borders of Austria became famous Botanical Garden of the University of Innsbruck... Founded back in 1793, now it occupies more than 2 hectares of land and contains many types of amazing plants.
The garden boasts a huge collection of various cacti, and its main department is represented by an alpine garden. The entrance to the garden is free, you have to pay only for visiting greenhouses and greenhouses.
Other natural attractions and parks in and around Innsbruck:
- Eagles Resort Village;
- Inn river embankment(Innbrücke, Innsbruck);
- Valley Otztal(Garni Ötztal Gurglerstraße 7);
- Imperial garden(Hofgarten park) (Innsbruck);
- The Stubai Alps;
- Glarshbakh River;
- Zirmbach River;
- Mount Hafelekarspitze.
Also near Innsbruck there are some great skiing spots:
- Ski resort Akzamer-Lizum;
- Valley Stubaital;
- Rettenbach Glacier;
- Mount Gaislachkogel;
- Sölden town;
- Mutters Municipality.
Innsbruck, sights - what to see in one day?
If you have time constraints, we offer you a list of what you can see in Innsbruck on your own in just 1 day:
- We start our acquaintance with Innsbruck with Old town... Here you can see: Maria Theresa Street, Arc de Triomphe, Hospital Church, St. Anne's Column, Heobling House, Golden Roof, Town Hall.
- Also nearby is Imperial Palace of Innsbruck... Here is located Alpine museum.
- Next to it is the Imperial Church.
- Then we propose to examine springboard "Berzigel", where you can and dine in a cozy restaurant.
- After lunch, be sure to visit Ambrass Castle and Museum "Swarovski Crystal Worlds".
- We propose to devote the evening to walking along the old and modern streets of Innsbruck and buying souvenirs.
- Or you can take a walk in Botanical Garden of the University of Innsbruck.
Where to go with your child in Innsbruck?
Bells museum - Hofgarten Park;
- Museum of the Olympic Games;
- Tyrolean Folk Museum;
- Alpine Zoo;
- Bells Museum;
- The "Neanderthal" village of Etzi;
- Bird of prey park.
Video review of the sights of Innsbruck
We have selected for you a fairly complete video review of the sights of Innsbruck.
