Innsbruck’s magnificent Hofkirche (Court Church) stands out for its gleaming white walls and tall tower. A visit inside reveals further splendour, as this 16th-century church houses the memorial to a former emperor, along with other interesting features.
After the death of Emperor Maximilian I, his grandson Ferdinand I was charged with the construction of his tomb. The Hofkirche was built to house it in 1553 by the Italian architect, Andrea Crivelli, and is a prime example of Renaissance style expertly blended with late gothic influences. The church is highly decorated with painted panels and elegant arches throughout, and features a particularly fine organ – locally described as one of the most famous in the world – which is regularly used for classical music concerts.
Wandering around the Hofkirche, it is impossible to miss the elaborate tomb in the church’s central nave. The skill and time that went into this construction give an indication of how important the man it memorialises was here. The cenotaph itself is made of a block of black marble, which makes the white marble reliefs and bronze friezes on it stand out all the more. These feature important scenes from Emperor Maximilian I’s life, including his two weddings and several victorious battles. The monument is guarded by 28 life-like bronze statues of the emperor’s ancestors and other important historical figures that stand up to 2.5 metres tall.
In a chapel to the side, you will find the tombs of Archduke Ferdinand II and his wife. Known as the Silver Chapel because of its silver altar, which also includes elephant tusks and ebony, this room is well worth exploring. The final tomb the Hofkirche is famous for is that of local Tyrolean folk hero, Andreas Hofer, who led a rebellion against Napoleon’s forces in the early nineteenth century.
The Hofkirche is in central Innsbruck located next to the Imperial Palace. Entry is through the Volksmuseum (Folk Museum), for which there is a small charge. The easiest way to get here is on foot – the Hofkirche is within walking distance of many major hotels and attractions. Alternatively, several buses stop nearby. The church is open daily, with shorter hours on Sundays and other holidays
