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Court Church: A Shrine to Imperial Ambition

Explore Innsbruck's Court Church: a Gothic masterpiece housing Emperor Maximilian I's cenotaph and the iconic 'Black Men' bronze statues.

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The Court Church (Hofkirche), a Gothic masterpiece in Innsbruck's Old Town, is a cenotaph for Emperor Maximilian I, surrounded by striking bronze statues of his ancestors and heroes. It also houses the tomb of Tyrolean national hero Andreas Hofer.

A brief summary to Court Church Innsbruck

Local tips

  • Purchase a combination ticket to also visit the Tyrolean Folk Art Museum, which provides access to the Court Church.
  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter, more contemplative experience.
  • Take time to admire the intricate details of the bronze statues and marble reliefs on Emperor Maximilian I's cenotaph.
  • Check the schedule for concerts or special events that may be taking place during your visit.
  • The Innsbruck Card includes admission to the Court Church.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Court Church is located in the heart of Innsbruck's Old Town, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the Golden Roof, walk east along Herzog-Friedrich-Straße, then turn left onto Universitätsstraße. The Court Church will be on your left, next to the Hofburg Imperial Palace. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    Innsbruck's public transport network includes buses and trams that stop near the Court Church. From Innsbruck Hauptbahnhof (main train station), take tram line 1 or 3 towards Igls and get off at the 'Universität' stop. The Court Church is a 5-minute walk from the tram stop. Alternatively, take bus routes that stop at Museumstraße. A single ride ticket costs approximately €3.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Innsbruck. A taxi ride from Innsbruck Hauptbahnhof to the Court Church typically takes 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The fare is approximately €10-€13. Taxis will drop you off directly in front of the church on Universitätsstraße.

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Discover more about Court Church Innsbruck

In the heart of Innsbruck's Altstadt (Old Town), the Court Church (Hofkirche) stands as a powerful testament to imperial ambition and artistic achievement. Built by Emperor Ferdinand I in 1553 as a memorial to his grandfather, Emperor Maximilian I, the church is a treasure trove of German Renaissance sculpture and Tyrolean history. Though Maximilian I is buried in Wiener Neustadt, the Hofkirche serves as his grand cenotaph. The centerpiece is the elaborate black marble sarcophagus, adorned with intricate reliefs depicting scenes from Maximilian's life. Surrounding the cenotaph are 28 larger-than-life bronze statues, known as the "Black Men" (Schwarzmander), representing ancestors, relatives, and heroes of the Emperor. These statues, crafted by prominent artists of the time, were intended to showcase Maximilian's lineage and imperial power. The church itself is an architectural blend of late Gothic and Renaissance styles. Designed by Andrea Crivelli, it features three naves, round and pointed arch windows and a steep hip roof. Inside, visitors can admire the high altar designed by Nikolaus Pacassi, the Renaissance organ by Jörg Ebert, and the Silver Chapel, which houses the tombs of Archduke Ferdinand II and his wife Philippine Welser. The Hofkirche also holds the tomb of Andreas Hofer, the Tyrolean national hero who led a rebellion against Napoleonic forces. A visit to the Court Church offers a glimpse into the world of the Habsburg emperors and the rich cultural heritage of Tyrol.

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