Court Church

Innsbruck’s Hofkirche, or Court Church, is a declaration of Gothic architecture in its own right but its real highlight is the extraordinary monument to Maximilian I. It’s almost as if the whole design is built up around his tomb and you can’t help but be drawn to it.

The church itself was built in 1553 on Ferdinand I’s order, to preserve the memory of Maximilian I, his grandfather, who died in 1519. The tomb had already been begun in 1500 but took over 80 years to complete, by which time Maximilian was resting in peace elsewhere. The lack of an actual coffin seems to be of little importance here and the designers have more than made up for this with the magnificent bronze statues that stand sentry around the tomb and the detailed reliefs of scenes from the emperor’s life.

As you walk through the main entrance from the Volksmuseum you’ll be given the chance to see a presentation on the life of Maximilian. This is certainly worthwhile for those who want to put things in context. You’ll then be struck on stepping into the church by the shafts of heavenly light spearing down through the windows onto the black and white tiled floor.

The architecture will naturally draw you to its focal point in the central nave where you’ll find the tomb. At between 2 and 2.5 metres tall, the statues are more than life-sized. You’ll be standing up against bronze castings of the emperor, his ancestors and historical characters, including King Arthur. On top of the tomb is another statue of Maximilian, this time in a kneeling position and surrounded by statues of Justice, Fortitude, Temperance and Prudence. The 24 reliefs are sure to catch your gaze.

To have a look at the Silver Chapel you’ll have to climb the stairs leading up from opposite the main entrance. The wood and silver Madonna on top of the silver altar are not to be missed.

The Hofkirche is in the centre of Innsbruck and easy to reach by bus. It could be combined with a visit to the Imperial Palace, which is next door. On average a viewing of the church, including the presentation, takes about an hour and a half.

The church is open daily with shorter opening hours on Sundays and public holidays. There is a small admission charge.