Overview:

Innsbruck Old Town is a historic district in the city of Innsbruck, Austria. The district is bordered by the Inn River to the north, a small stream called the Circumference to the east, the foothills of the Alps to the south and the modern urban portion of Innsbruck to the west. Innsbruck Old Town is known for its historic architecture, stunning mountain views, cobblestone streets, and unique cultural attractions. Many of the important buildings of Innsbruck's past, such as Schloss Ambras, the Golden Roof, and the Hofburg Imperial Palace are located within this district. Innsbruck Old Town also boasts many churches, colorful cafes, and picturesque alleyways that make it a popular tourist destination. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Austria
Prominent Features:

1. Imperial Palace: The Imperial Palace or Hofburg is located in the very center of Innsbruck's old town. It was the former residence of the counts and prince archbishops of Tyrol. The palace also includes the Imperial Chapel, the Ambras Castle, the Golden Roof, the Hofgarten Garden and the Court Church. 2. Golden Roof: One of Innsbruck’s most iconic landmarks, the Golden Roof (or ‘Goldenes Dachl’ in German) was built in the 1500s as an archway created for Maximilian I to view tournaments from the window of his palace. It is decorated with 2,657 wooden tiles and lined with gilded copper plates and gives the facade its name. 3. Stadtturm: Built-in 1450, the Stadtturm is the ancient landmark that used to act as a sentry, looking out over the old town. It stands 44 meters in height and is one of the few fortresses still standing in the old city. 4. Maria Theresien Strasse: This street is the modern shopping center of the city and runs through the old town. It has a collection of cafes, shops, and restaurants dating back to the Renaissance. 5. Hofgarten Garden: This grand garden is situated beside the Hofburg Palace and was first created as a market garden in the 1500s. The garden boasts many manicured flower beds and sculptures, a pond, fountains, and benches. 6. Imperial Chapel: Built-in the late 1500s, this grand chapel was built as an acoustical masterpiece. Its walls are adorned with a stunning array of frescoes and its ceiling, created from marble, is one of the most impressive works of art in the old city. 7. Sandwirt Pub: Dating back to 1332 this pub is the oldest beer hall in Innsbruck. It is a favourite of local artists and the walls feature historic photographs of the city. 8. Ambras Castle: Built-in 1564, this fortress was once the residence of Archduke Ferdinand II. It is now home to several important art collections including the Chamber of Art and Curiosities, an armoury museum, and a Spanish gallery. 9. Tramway Inn: This old Inn is one of the oldest pubs in the old town and is a favourite of locals and tourists. It features traditional Tyrolean fare and a lively atmosphere. 10. Wilten Basilica: This Rococo-style church, with its grand bell tower and gilded Baroque interior, was built-in the 17th century as a pilgrimage church. It is a well-known landmark and its white façade makes it a stand-out amongst the rich colours of the old town architecture. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Austria.

History:

Innsbruck’s Old Town dates back to the Middle Ages. The area was first occupied in 1287 by the Counts of Andechs-Meran, who built the first castle, Schloss Ambras, on the site. The town expanded rapidly thereafter and in the15th century, the city became a center of commerce and commerce connected with the imperial court in Vienna. Innsbruck was heavily fortified by the mid-16th century and was a major trading hub for the Habsburgs, who funded the construction of strong city walls and bastions. In 1552, Emperor Maximilian I declared the city to be the capital of Tyrol and henceforth it became a major political and cultural center in the region. The city flourished during the 17th and 18th centuries and witnessed a period of significant growth. The magnificent buildings of downtown reflect the wealth of that time, as many churches were built or refurbished in the Baroque style. The world’s largest Baroque fountain, the Goldenes Dachl, was constructed in 1573 by Archduke Ferdinand II and stands in the heart of the Old Town. During the 19th century, Innsbruck’s economy shifted from traditional trade to industry and a vast array of factories was built. Today, the city is the capital of Tyrol and a major centre for cultural and educational activities, while its original historic charm remains intact, making it a popular tourist destination. Visit one of the famous monuments of Austria with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

• Innsbruck Old Town is one of the country’s oldest cities. It was founded in 1187 by Duke Albert IV of Bavaria. • Innsbruck has been the capital of Tyrol since 1563 and is still the administrative center of the region. • Innsbruck Old Town is filled with quaint medieval and Baroque buildings. • The historical city center is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site and has over 12 churches, including the 14th-century Gothic Saint Jakob’s Church. • The city is home to one of Europe’s oldest and best-preserved castles, Schloss Ambras, located high above the city. • Innsbruck Old Town is renowned for its many landmarks, including the Triumphal Arch, St. Anne's Column, the Golden Roof and the Helbling fountain. • Innsbruck also has a fascinating winter sports’ history. The city hosted the first Winter Olympics in 1964 and twice as many in 1976. One of the historical monuments of Austria, it tells the story of a bygone era