Innsbruck is one of the most relevant cities of Austria and true magnificent cultural essence of Tyrol a land which offers several historical and natural attractions all around its wonderful territory.
Surrounded by mountains with a charming pedestrian historic centre packed by elegant buildings with coloured roofs and an outstanding architecture result of an active artistic life during centuries and of course it is one of those destinations will leave the visitor the desire to come back sooner or later.
With its about 130,000 inhabitants,that very attractive Austrian centre is located at the confluence of the river Inn and the Sill.
Situated approximately one hour driving from Merano and Bolzano,two beautiful Italian towns of the Italian Alto Adige,Innsbruck is also a perfect point to visit the beautiful German Region of Bavaria achieving in a short time the splendid city of Munich.
Considered the soul of that corner of the Austrian Republic
it shows beautiful landscapes retaining also many rich
monuments of relevant interest showing in all its splendour a glorious and magnificent past.
The city is also a very romantic surrounded by mountains with an outstanding patrimony ranging
from Gothic to Renaissance and Baroque architecture with a historic centre
among the most beautiful in Europe.
The name Innsbruck derives from the word Bruck which in German language means bridge on the river Inn from that composition the current name of that important Tyrolean city.
Embraced by a chain
of mountains called Nordkette which forms a sort of crown around its boundaries its historic centre has a
large amount of late-Gothic constructions many of them are Baroque and Rococo palaces and with a wide
variety of artistic details in its streets and alleys as
those wrought-iron signs hanging on the colourful facades of it houses which are another of the many architectonic highlights.
Innsbruck has always enjoyed an excellent reputation as a world congress,conventions,conferences,artistic and sport destination and its residents enjoy a quality of life among the highest in Europe.
A special climatic feature is the Fhon that warm wind coming
from south which tempers the climate of the city so ideal to enjoy that destination all year with the opportunity to sit in spring and summer in the several outdoor cafes enjoying a delicious
Apple Strudel with a coffee in the stylish street Maria-Theresia-Strasse an ice cream next to its Hofburg and also all that makes Innsbruck a a very special place.
Also
autumn is an important period of the year when Innsbruck is transformed in a busy and active centre hosting many cultural
events while winter is the magnificent season of Winter Sports and also
the magic time in which is celebrated its unforgettable and great
Christmas Market.
Its very well organised Tourism Board Institution is another gem providing excellent information about the brilliant calendar of events and tourist proposals providing incoming services absolutely magnificent statisfying the needs of every visitor.
A very efficient transport system,the presence of economic opportunities with many chances to develop many business operations,its rich cultural and historical heritage make that place unique in its kind.
The geographical position is definetely another great incentive to chose that Austrian centre as ideal place to spend short breaks and holidays,including inserted in a tailor made tour in Central Europe.
Not far from the Mediterranean in about 2 hours and half driving you can reach the Adriatic Riviera,with Italy,Slovenia and Croatia,Germany is very close and also Switzerland crossing stunning Alpine passes is not at a long distance,all that is a winning mix with thousands of reasons to take Innsbruck in a very relevant consideration.
Historical Roman colony,the first important settlement was developed during that period in which was developed the fort of Veldidena.As
mentioned at the beginning Innsbruck takes its name from Inn and
Bruck and that bridge over a very relevant waterway in the heart of Europe made it an important crossroad
throughout the Roman Empire.
During the course of its historical stages the former town was often protagonist of disputes between Bavarians and Austrian for its strategical position.Also thanks to that in 1232 Innsbruck was elevated to city rank.
Some years later in the year 1248 it was under the domain of the Counts of Tyrol before to be sold together with the Cis-and Trans Tyrolean territories to Rudolf IV of Hapsburg in 1363.
In a short time due its significant relevance and continuous expansion it was named Capital of the land in the year 1420 replacing Merano and it became official residence of the Emperor Maximilian I.
The city experienced a period of great prosperity and economic growth between the 16th and 17th centuries thanks to an increasing trade and for its new important political prestige and influence it was frequently a destination of meetings of the powerful Hapsburg House.
A magnificent golden period was the 17th century highlighted in particular when in the year
1669 was opened the local
University.That notable event permitted the city to be one of the most important sites of studies and education in Austria and Europe.In
the year
1805 with the
Peace of Pressburg Innsbruck joined the
Kingdom of Bavaria coming back to
the
Austrian Empire just 10 years later after the
Congress of Vienna in 1815.In the most contemporary history Innsbruck was temporarily occupied
by Italian troops in 1918 and some years later as all the territory of Austria it was incorporated to
Germany with the famous
"Anschluss Operation" and
severely bombed during the 2nd World War.After that historic event with the reconstruction of the Austrian Republic the city became one of the most influential centres of the country.
Very pleasant to visit the city centre offers a wide pedestrian area which is undoubtedly a splendid feature immediately to appreciate with the fantastic chance to admire the most important attractions in a very relaxing way,no traffic and pleasant walks reaching all the most emblematic points without difficulties in a very short time.
You can start the visit from one of its iconic sites,the emblematic Maria-Theresia-Strasse (Mary Therese Street) which is the main street of the city and considered in terms of comparison a sort of Champs-Élysées in Paris or London's Regent Street.
That charming avenue dwells in the south with Leopold Strasse (Leopold Street) another main artery of the Tyrolean Capital.Halfway to the latter there is the intersection with the important and busy Schidlachstrasse and at a very short distance from there you can admire a structure reminiscent of a Roman triumphal arch but erected in the 18th century.
You can admire the elaborate decorations of that majestic monument which depicts the images of Franz I and Maria Therese, the Archduke Leopold and his sisters and including the well known Marie Antoinette Empress of Austria.
That Arch of Triumph was built for the wedding of the Emperor Leopold II as a sort of hymn of glory to the grandeur of the Imperial Hapsburg House.
The famous Annesaule,the column dedicated St.Ann is another important highlight consisting in a a votive monument which was erected in 1704 by Benedetti to celebrate an important event of Innsbruck,the liberation of the city and Tyrol by the Bavarian troops.
The Altes Landaus is the seat of the Parliament of the Tyrol government also called Landesregierung. That impressive Baroque palace was built between 1725 and 1728 by Georg Anton Gumpp,a member of a dynasty of architects very active throughout the area of Innsbruck.
The building was developed on three floors featuring a magnificent facade decorated by the same Gumpp.
The main staircase is covered with stucco and decorated with statues and busts as well as the ceiling is adorned with an eagle clutching a Tirolean map in the claws of the nation.
In addition you can also appreciate the beautiful conference room decorated with stucco ornament paintings of great value typical of the Baroque style of that period.That magnificent work is dated 1734 by Cosmas Damian Asam a famous painter from Bavaria.
That representation is unique in its kind in all Austria.Apart the splendid architectonic lines it is something impressive because it links a classic and majestic aesthetic of the most shining Baroque art so loved by the Hapsburg with a deep innovation also in terms of special details present in the ceiling.
All that making is a a mix of outstanding grandeur consisting in superb artistic work completed by that multitude of detailed and impressive elements added in that space studied to impress everyone at first sight.
Across Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse a very characteristic and enchanting cobbled street you can admire Goldenes Dachl (The Golden Roof).Goldenes Dachl located in the heart of the old centre of Innsbruck which is definitely one of the emblematic symbols of the city.
That magnificent construction has a balcony dated 16th century built for Emperor Maximilian I who wanted with that representation to show all his wealth and power and it is covered by a roof made of 2567 gilded copper tiles.
When the sun is shimmering and beats on the roof the entire facade dazzling light shines offering a spectacular view.That roof was developed to commemorate the Emperor marriage with Bianca Maria Sforza a noble lady from Milan in the year 1494 linking the Hapsburg House to the most powerful Milanese Dynasty.
That outstanding work is unique in its kind in all Austria,apart the
splendid architectonic lines and superb details in terms of decorations it is undoubtedly something impressive
because it links a classic and majestic aesthetic with new concepts of decorative art using different materials,a work of glorification of the architecture at those times.
As one of he most popular tourist attraction worth a visit the Goldenes Dachl Museum consisting in a relevant exhibition arranged in six rooms and with the support of modern technologies and sound installations it offers the visitors a very vivid picture of Tyrol in the late Middle Ages.
Children have the opportunity to take a fascinating journey through time accompanied by Kunz von der Rosen,the court jester of the Emperor Maximilian and the image of that character will guide and help them to discover through a funny and pleasant visit very interesting things and curiosities happened in those days.
The area surrounding Herzog Friedrich Strasse is another stupendous corner of Innsbruck packed by oustanding Baroque buildings but to excel is the pink-orange of the house of Helblinghaus, which is another relevant attraction.
It is a very charming building with a beautiful late Gothic style facade.Extensively decorated around the 18th century,particularly appreciated are the stucco and the sculptures which adorn the exterior of that construction which was commissioned by the same owner Johann Fischer in 1730 to Anton Gigl.
Some of the most shining highlights are the refined pediment and the decorations on the windows.The name of that house,however,takes its name from Sebastian Helbling who was neither owner nor architect but the operator of a small cafe presents there in the mid-19th century.
Very interesting is the Markt the Innsbruck Market in which you can find a wide selection of typical local products as crafts and including food.
The market is open daily and worth a visit for its very colourful atmosphere with the presence of a big variety of articles and items of excellent quality and it could be a very nice break also having the chance to buy something very interesting.
Continuing the visit you can admire the Hofburg,another superb icon of the city.It is the majestic Imperial Palace of the Emperor Maximilian I built in the 15th century.That stunning building is a beautiful example of magnificence and power.The Hofburg was once the residence of the Counts of Tyrol and later became the Royal palace of Maximilian and Maria Theresa of Austria residence in the Capital of Tyrol.
The state rooms are very charming and plenty of historical patterns.Highlights are definitely the galleries,the throne room and the large gardens which complete that imposing structure.
The current architecture visible today is due to Maria Theresa of Austria who commissioned works adapted to the previous austerity with artistic decorations in Baroque style remodelling the building between the years 1766 and 1770.
Subdivided in four wings,boasting splendid domed towers and a two story rooms painted in white and gold colours filled by
portraits of the Hapsburg dynasty,the image of that architectonic masterpiece has many things in common with the so famous
Hofburg of Vienna.
The Wonderful
Riesennsaal (The Giant Room),which once welcomed the European aristocracy for the most lavish parties is one of the most enchanting sections of the place with painted ceiling dated
1776 by a local artist called
Franz Anton Maulbertsch. The
Gardesaal (Hall of the Guards) is another magnificent hall which was also used for important political meetings and events related to the Imperial diplomacy and furthermore you can admire the
Altmutter (The Old Mother room) and a series of apartments in a succession consisting in
27 stylish and luxury rooms.
Also worth a visit the stupendous building hosting the State Rooms and the Chapel.That elegant and majestic site is particularly famous because was the residence of "Sissi" the famous Austrian-Hungarian Empress Elizabeth probably you remember the movie performed by the famous actress Romy Schneider who loved so much that place and it is surrounded by magnificent gardens reminiscent of the famous Belvedere Garten of Vienna.
You can admire with a look to its exterior the style used during the works focused in lines and details combined with ideal colours chosen to give the human eye an immediate sensation of superb aesthetic.
As curious and historic feature the Hapsburg House before to start the construction of a palace wanted to check an average media of 50/60 projects and then there was the choice.All that despite it could be pretty peculiar was also a detail which gave brilliant results you can still see today in the many former Imperial cities,not only Vienna,but also in Budapest,Salzburg,Graz and Innsbruck too.
The beautiful Hofkirche is another construction which is part of the classic Austrian grandeur consisting an imposing Church erected in Neo-Gothic style,a masterpiece commissioned by Ferdinand I in the 16th century and ended in the year 1553.
Well known as the Imperial Church of Innsbruck thanks to the will of the Imperial House and besides being one of the most important religious buildings of Austria,that Religious building was also the symbol of the struggles for independence becoming a national shrine of Tyrol.
The three aisles make it a fairly large temple with elaborate decorations of Renaissance and Baroque inspirations and the main attraction is of course the tomb of Emperor Maximilian I considered as the most important funerary monuments in Europe and in the World.
The cenotaph is dated 16th century and it is a work by distinguished artists very famed at that time such as Albrecht Durer,Vischer and Alexander Colin.You can admire the beautiful square richly decorated which protects the sarcophagus of the Emperor.
That site is surrounded by 28 bronze statues called Schwarznmander (giant black men) who guard the rest of that important character furthermore you will notice the presence of several bronzes images depicting King Arthur,King Theodoric of the Goths,Bianca Maria Sforza second wife of Maximilian,Charles V and Philip II, among others.
The mausoleum was erected by the Emperor Ferdinand,who was the grandson of Maximilian to represent the power and legitimacy of the Holy Roman Empire.You can also notice the chorus of the princess in a traditional Renaissance style and stalls as well as the tomb of Andreas Hofer,a famous patriot from Tyrol.
On one side lies the beautiful chapel of Silberne erected for Philippine Welser, wife of Ferdinand II of Tyrol.Unfortunately the Church suffered some damages by bombing during 2nd World War II but after several restorations it shows a brilliant aspect and a perfect reconstruction of the sections mainly damaged as part of a wing.
Altes Rathaus is the old Town Hall,a building with an impressive 56 metres high tower erected in the 15th century.The works finished in the year 1442 and it is definitely another emblematic symbol of the city.
Going up you can enjoy a spectacular mountain view and you can also admire at a short distance Palast Mozart,the residence in which the famous composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart stayed in 1769
Another building you can see from there is Neuer Hof which was the emblematic residence of Sigmund of Tyrol and Frederik IV dukes who ruled the city.
Dom zu St.Jakob is the Innsbruck Cathedral classified as one of the most beautiful Baroque Churches in Innsbruck and Tyrol.
That architectonic masterpiece is dated 1724 erected on a previous site of a former Gothic Religious temple.The interiors are richly decorated with religious motifs and details including a wonderful painting depicting the Virgin Mary.Other relevant works are the main altar and the beautiful Baroque decorations by Johann Jakob Herkommer.
The Cathedral is well known for hosting the famous Virgin of Cranach by Lucas Cranach the Elder and a unique music carillon from which a sweet melody known as the Symphony of peace highlights the view of that magnificent architectonic masterpiece.
In addition there you can also see the monument in honour of the Archduke Maximilian III erected in 1620 considered one of the most influential figures at that time,a man with an important charisma who played an important role and also known as the Grand Master of the Teutonic Knights.
Do not miss to climb to the top of the Stadt Turm,the famous City tower to enjoy another spectacular view of Innsbruck and the Alps.That iconic construction was originally built in 1400 as a prison and the visitor can notice what it meant to be imprisoned in the medieval period visiting the old prisons ending the trip reaching the summit of that imposing tower.
For all the lovers of museums,Innsbruck offers a wide range for every taste.The
Landesmuseum Ferdinandeum is one of them consisting in a very interesting exhibition founded in
1823 with a rich collection of natural history of Tyrol,displaying different subjects such as geological,botanical and technology with a large presence of very interesting items.
Some rooms are mainly devoted to the
Gothic and Germanic Austria of the 19th and 20th century with also a beautiful library.You can also admire works by
Michael Pacher and others related to the Middle Ages in particular focused in
the late 1400.The
20th century is in honour of Austrian art representing several important paintings by famous artists such as
Klimt,Kokoschka and Egger Linz and furthermore you will have the chance to appreciate some findings of
the original Golden Roof,the first pieces of that wonderful construction.
During the visit you can enjoy a very pleasant and enjoyable break with a stop at Gasthof Goldener Adler.It is another mandatory during a stay in Innsbruck.It is an ancient tavern and the translation from German language of that establishment is the Golden Eagle Tavern.
That establishment is a very famous place because it hosted in several occasions famed characters such as the unforgettable musician Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart,the famous Genoese violinist Niccoló Paganini and the father of German literature,Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe who sat there in several occasions.
That tavern by considerable charm for its interior and exterior is the oldest of Austria and it was inaugurated in 1390 and considered an absolute icon as a pioneer of the first Austrian catering & hospitality symbols.
The Wilten Basilika (Basilica of Wilten) is another important Religious site of immense historic value.Built in Gothic style in the 13th century and renowned in the 18th century its exterior is characterised by two large towers while inside you can admire several Rococo works by important artists and the beautiful ceiling decorated by Matthaus Gunther.
Another magnificent attraction and worth a visit is Crystal World. That so popular site shows the beauty of the famous Svarowski crystals consisting in seven underground chambers which display wonderful stones made in different styles.
Some of them are crystals from versions of works by Andy Warhol and Salvador Dali in a surreal environment under a dome of crystal and it is undoubtedly a truly unique experience admiring those artistic masterpieces.
Other highlights are a light show and performances dimensional kaleidoscopic in the Crystal Theatre born in 1995 to mark the centenary of the activities of the famous Austrian brand Swarovski specialised in crystals.
As you know the production of the company which extends beyond the crystal collectibles loved for their brilliance and ability to refract light,even in technical subjects such as binoculars and also fashion items such as purses,jewelry,watches,gadgets and accessories.All the articles are very appreciated all around the world not only for the material used but also for the fine and stylish design which conquers the taste of several people.
The splendid introduction is a giant eye sparkling and crystal clear water coming out from its mouth and it will welcome the entrance of what you can define a fine a gallery of modern art
The first large room shines of crystal masterpieces by several artists and the crystal theatre is absolutely outstanding while the crystal Cathedral with a marvellous crystal dome and a crystal wall 11 metres high is one of the majestic attractions for its imposing structure with 590 mirrors creating a swirl of colours and sounds.
The Gallery houses an international collection of paintings and images dedicated to the world of the crystal represented by famous artists such as Miró, Chagall, Navratil, Pongratz, Tezak, Helmut Newton,Man Ray and Giselle Freund.In the hall connecting the World you will admire a giant globe in the centre with a spirit of crystal which turns around waiting for the visitor.
The name Innsbruck is also synonymous of Winter Olympics Games and the cultural essence of Tyrol is also representated by winter sports which always played an important role.
The Bergisel Turm (Bergisel Tower) is definitely one of the emblematic symbols which definitely helped the city to appear so important worldwide also as Sport destination and icon.
As you know the Capital of Tyrol hosted the Winter Olympic Games in the 60s and 70s and it is there that in the year in 1927 arose the first natural springboard for ski jumping.The run of the trampoline is inclined at 37 degrees to bring the thrills even the most experienced jumpers and it is considered as a sort of Sanctuary of that sport speciality.
The Olympic ski jump was restored in 2002 by the architect Zaha Hadid and Bergisel ski jumping competition is included in the famous and prestigious International tournament of 4 trampolines.
Today Bergisel is also a place of tourist attractions att the centre of the action was that imposing towee,a
futuristic pad for that period about ski jumping which is still one of
the main attractions of the city.Standing on top of the platform the
visitors can experience a sense of vertigo approaching the launch point.
The new diagonal lift can carry up to 350 people per hour and covering the stretch along 250 metres in about 2 minutes.
The visitor can also enjoy the rooftop terrace you can have a 360 degree view admiring the city and all the mountains around,enjoying furthermore a panoramic restaurant and the Cafe Turm which complete that wonderful complex.
During summer season if you are in Innsbruck as incentive to
enjoy something of alternative is that you can see some relevant
international athletes training along that emblematic trampoline.
Just south of Innsbruck you can visit
Schloss Ambras (Ambras Castle).It is easily accessible by convenient public transports and it is located in the heart of a park linked to the Austrian Imperial history
.
That manor was the castle of
Archduke Ferdinand II in the 16th century.That magnificent Renaissance building is all to be explored and it also houses one of the
largest European collection of weapons and art.
Very interesting are the
three large rooms and the
hall of weapons of wonders arranged as a museum dedicated to the Archduke and furthermore one of its most attractive sections is the wonderful
Spanish Hall an outstanding example of
Renaissance architecture.
The museum was built by the Archduke to accommodate an ample and vast variety of armours and a universal collection consisting of pieces of natural history such as raw works,artistic items of great value,a kind of theatre of the wonders according to the modern concepts and interests of that noble man.
The Portrait Gallery displays over 250 paintings mainly concentrated in the art of the 14th century.
The armours collection belong to more than 120 leaders and are accompanied by pictures which testify to the business of weapons carried by those leaders.The hall in sharp contrast to a huge armour on display at the centre of representing a bodyguard called Bon.
The small plates depict the children of Ferdinand II,the armour was of the giant Bartlmä Bon, Bartolomeo Bon a farmer from Riva del Garda in Italy over 2,00 metres tall.That tall man accompanied to Vienna in 1560 a grandson of the Archduke to particiapate to his first Imperial tournament in which he fought on foot and on horseback.
The castle which was originally a medieval fortress is situated on a rock,it has today an ancient aspect but it was several times over the centuries altered so that in the 20th century it was decided to bring the building back to its original aspect.
Approximately 6,0 kilometres from Innsbruck is situated one of the most exclusive ski resorts of Austria : Igls.Located in a spectacular position at the foot of Mount Patscherkofel,Igls is a great place to enjoy skiing and also a coffee and relax admiring the magnificent Alpine landscapes.
Not far from the city the visitors can also have other opportunity to enjoy pleasant hiking excursions and visiting another magnificent alpine area the Nordkette reaching at an altitude of over 2000 metres.
That group of magnificent peaks with unforgettable panoramic views offers the chance to admire the natural beauty situated all around the cityAnother attraction is the famed Alpenzoo the highest in Europe which houses approximately 2100 animals including bears,wolves,otters,several species of birds among others.
The vibrant and exuberant nightlife of Innsbruck is of undoubedtly another significant detail which makes that place very special.With nearly a quarter of the population made up of university students,Innsbruck obviously has an excellent number of clubs and establishments linked to entertainment and fun in particular in the area of Bogen and in the the
old city.
Most of the local
wineries often offer evening with Tyrolean folk music and there are venues very trendy some of them with an interesting calendar of live music too.
The famous Gasthof,typical Austrian
tavern is the right place to enjoy a delicious Apfel Strudel,(the
famous Austrian cake made by apples) or a snack of Speck (the tastefully
and traditional smoked ham from Tyrol) and an ample choice of typical local and ethnic restaurants for lunch or
dinner provide a rich gastronomic choice to enjoy during a stay.
Many are the opportunities for shopping.In the centre of the city it is very easy to find high
quality products of international reputation such as Prada,Bvlgari and Yves
St Laurent among others.
Innsbruck is also a
city ideal for incentive tours,for your business,the right place if you want to organise
an event, a conference or a convention but also very suggested for families with
children to enjoy happy moments in contact with its relaxing and
beautiful natural areas and very recommended for all the lovers of art,history,architecture,outdoor activities and winter sports.
Many are the important International
events the city hosts,in winter season.In the Tyrolean capital takes place the World Cup of Nordic Ski, with its famous ski jumping competition.In summer it celebrates the Festival Tanzen with a very lively atmosphere including several are the concerts from rock and pop to classical and symphonic music.
December is undoubtedly one of the most lively months in Innsbruck with Bergsilvester the great New Year celebration and obviously Christmas Market
an event of international fame for the presence of a multitude of
stalls offering the best about Austrian gastronomy,tasting and savouring
some delicious Krafpen,Strudel,Sacher living and enjoying the spectacular and enchanting Christmas air you can breathe there.
In the western side of the city is situated the busy Innsbruck International Airport Kranebitten.The airport only has one terminal and the connection to and from is provided by a bus service.
The urban transport network of the city is managed by the companies Innsbrucker Verkehrsbetriebe, Innbus and Verkehrsverbund Tirol which cover all the urban area and surroundings.
Thanks to its wonderful location Innsbruck is a destination for everyone.Surely you will love that city at first sight with its several attractions and you will remember that destination which is the iconic and true magnificent cultural essence of Tyrol as one of the best spots and pictures of that enchanting country called Austria.
Francesco Mari
Recommended Hotels in Innsbruck
Grand Hotel Europe
Hilton Hotel Innsbruck
Hotel Adler Romantik Schwarzer
Hotel Goldener Adler
Hotel The Penz
Hotel Best Western Leipziger Hof
Hotel Mondschein
Hotel Maximilian
