Golden Roof
Tirol
The Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl) is a late Gothic ornamental balcony located in Innsbruck's Old Town, Austria, and serves as a prominent symbol of the city. Constructed between 1497 and 1500 by order of Emperor Maximilian I, the balcony is covered with 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles, which give it its distinctive golden appearance. The structure was designed by Nikolaus Türing the Elder, with frescoes attributed to Maximilian's court painter Jörg Kölderer. Originally part of the 'Neuhof' palace, the balcony was built to mark the turn of the 16th century and to celebrate Maximilian's reign. The reliefs on the balcony depict Maximilian with his two wives, his chancellor, court jester, and morris dancers, alongside a complex inscription combining Latin, Greek, Hebrew, and possibly Egyptian hieroglyphs. Over centuries, the building served various functions, including as a government building and barracks, before becoming a cherished cultural landmark with the rise of tourism in the late 19th century. Today, the Golden Roof houses a museum dedicated to Maximilian I, featuring historical exhibits and multimedia displays that illuminate the transition from the Middle Ages to the modern era. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Innsbruck's historic center from the balcony, making it a must-see attraction that blends architectural splendor with rich imperial history.
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Astuce: Visit the Golden Roof museum during weekdays to avoid crowds and experience interactive exhibits about Emperor Maximilian I. Purchase tickets in advance online for a smoother entry. The site offers family-friendly activities including a children's scavenger hunt. Spring and early autumn provide pleasant weather and fewer tourists. Check museum opening hours before planning your visit, as occasional renovations may affect access.
Faits intéressants
- •The Golden Roof is covered with exactly 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles, making it a unique example of late Gothic craftsmanship.
- •The inscription on the balcony includes Latin, Greek, Hebrew, and possibly Egyptian hieroglyphs, partially deciphered only in recent decades.
- •Jakob Hutter, a preacher of the Anabaptists, was publicly burned alive in front of the Golden Roof in 1536 during the reign of Archduke Ferdinand.
- •In 1960, the Austrian Post issued a postage stamp featuring the Golden Roof as part of the Austrian monuments series.
- •Several gilded tiles were stolen during restoration works in 2012 but were subsequently recovered and returned.
Histoire
The Golden Roof was constructed between 1497 and 1500 as a commemorative balcony on the 'Neuhof' palace in Innsbruck, commissioned by Emperor Maximilian I to celebrate the dawn of the 16th century.
Designed by Nikolaus Türing the Elder, it featured 2,657 gilded copper tiles, a symbol of imperial prestige.
Over the centuries, the building's function shifted from a princely residence to administrative offices and military barracks.
In the late 19th century, with the advent of tourism, the Golden Roof gained recognition as Innsbruck's emblematic landmark.
The museum within the building was established in 1996 and underwent renovations to enhance accessibility and exhibition quality, reopening in 2007.
The site also hosts the Permanent Secretariat of the Alpine Convention since 2003.
Guide du lieu
The Golden Roof Balcony1497-1500
The iconic balcony adorned with 2,657 gilded copper tiles, offering panoramic views of Innsbruck's Old Town and showcasing intricate late Gothic reliefs depicting Emperor Maximilian I and his court.
Museum Goldenes DachlEstablished 1996, renovated 2007
A museum dedicated to Emperor Maximilian I and the history of the Golden Roof, featuring historical artifacts, multimedia presentations, and interactive exhibits that explore the transition from medieval to early modern times.
Contact
Téléphone: 0512 53601441