Imperial Palace (Hofburg)

Overview

The Innsbruck Hofburg is one of three imperial palaces in Austria (alongside Vienna and Schönbrunn). Originally a medieval fortress, it was rebuilt in Baroque style under Empress Maria Theresa in the 18th century and served as the Habsburg dynasty's Tyrolean residence.

Highlights

• Giant's Hall (Riesensaal): A 31-metre-long Rococo banquet hall with ceiling frescoes, portraits of Maria Theresa's 16 children, and views of the Nordkette.
• State Apartments: Lavishly decorated rooms with original furnishings, tapestries, and porcelain stoves.
• Chapel: The imperial chapel with its ornate Baroque altar.

History

Archduke Sigmund the Rich built the first residence in the 1450s. Emperor Maximilian I expanded it around 1500. Maria Theresa ordered the Rococo transformation in the 1770s, creating the palace's current appearance.

Visitor Tips

• Audio guide included with admission.
• Combined ticket available with the Hofkirche and Folk Art Museum.
• Duration: 45–75 minutes.