Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl)

Overview

The Goldenes Dachl (Golden Roof) is Innsbruck's most famous landmark, a late-Gothic oriel window added to the Neuer Hof (New Court) residence in 1500. Its roof of 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles glitters above Friedrich-Straße, catching light reflected off the Nordkette mountains.

Highlights

• Gilded Tiles: 2,657 fire-gilded copper shingles weighing about 14 kg of gold create the distinctive gleam.
• Relief Panels: Carved reliefs depict Emperor Maximilian I with his two wives, dancers, and heraldic symbols.
• Maximilian Museum: A small museum inside documents Maximilian's life and the oriel's construction.

History

Emperor Maximilian I commissioned architect Niklas Türing the Elder to build the balcony in 1497–1500. It served as a royal box from which Maximilian could watch tournaments and festivals in the square below.

Visitor Tips

• The exterior is free and visible 24/7 — the museum inside costs €5.
• Best photographed in the morning when the east-facing tiles catch the sun.
• Duration: 10–20 minutes (exterior); add 30 min for the museum.