Innsbruck & the Habsburg Era
The city of Innsbruck is suffused with the spirit of the Habsburg dynasty. Emperor Maximilian I completed the magnificent “Goldenes Dachl”, Leopold I founded the university and Maria Theresa’s association with Innsbruck…
…involves both the joy of a marriage and the sadness of a death. The Habsburgs’ legacy in Innsbruck is sumptuous and palatial, majestic and sometimes even shrouded in mystery. A royal history revisited.
On the trail of the Habsburgs
Emperor Maximilian I, in whose empire “the sun never set”; Empress Maria Theresa whose shrewd marital policies enabled her sons and daughters to marry into several royal houses; Emperor Franz Joseph, the “good old emperor” and, of course, his enchanting wife Elisabeth, the beautiful “Sisi” - the Habsburg dynasty held sway over the history of Europe. The legacy they left in Innsbruck is a wide-ranging one – and, above all, one that is still very much alive. The “Per Pedes” society, for instance, offers extraordinary guided tours through the stunning rooms of Innsbruck’s Hofburg palace.
In 1765, these rooms were witness to both “a marriage and a death”. For Empress Maria Theresa, the visit to Innsbruck was one of great sorrow; for her son, Leopold, it was an occasion of joy and celebration. Per Pedes’ “history detectives” know all the details. On 1, 8 and 29 July, on 30 September and on 7 October 2010, all will be revealed at 4 pm in the Hofburg.
During the summer months this year, we’ll be transporting Innsbruck’s Old Town over 250 years back in time. Heralded by fanfares and drumbeats, accompanied by jesters and acrobats, he makes his entrance: His Majesty Emperor Maximilian I. At the court celebration for Emperor Maximilian on 5, 12 and 19 August, guests can experience a colourful spectacle against an imposing, historic backdrop. Watch the festival culture of the Renaissance come alive. Feel the spirit of the Habsburgs! Enjoy a memorable experience. (Free admission) Just like in the heyday of the Monarchy!
The Innsbruck Promenade Concerts – from 7 July to 1 August 2010 – are a visual and musical highlight worthy of an Emperor - as is the venue for these daily concerts, namely the inner courtyard of the majestic Hofburg palace. The 30 string and brass bands will be playing a traditional repertoire of well-known waltzes, marches and operetta music … an outstanding melodic treat performed by musicians from Austria, Germany and Italy.
By the way, did you know that even the Habsburgs have their own blog? Check it out at blog.habsburger.net and discover more about Leopold, Maximilian, Maria Theresa & co.