Swarovski Crystal Worlds
Tirol
Swarovski Crystal Worlds, located in Wattens near Innsbruck in Austria's Tyrol region, is a unique museum and experiential park dedicated to the art of crystal. Created in 1995 by artist André Heller to celebrate Swarovski's centenary, it features a giant iconic structure known as "The Giant" that houses 18 underground chambers called Wunderkammern. These chambers are designed by renowned artists and designers such as Brian Eno, Keith Haring, Andy Warhol, and Salvador Dalí, each interpreting crystal in imaginative ways. The site expanded significantly in 2015, doubling its area to 7.5 hectares and adding a crystal cloud installation composed of around 800,000 hand-set Swarovski crystals, a playful climbing tower designed by Snøhetta, and a whimsical carousel by Jaime Hayon adorned with millions of crystals. The park combines contemporary art, history, and family-friendly attractions, making it a magical destination for all ages. Visitors can also explore a green labyrinth shaped like a hand and discover archaeological remains of a Roman estate found during renovations. The onsite restaurant Daniels Kristallwelten offers culinary delights within this artistic environment. Swarovski Crystal Worlds is more than a museum; it is an immersive journey into creativity, craftsmanship, and the sparkling world of crystal.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Swarovski Crystal Worlds is during spring and summer for pleasant weather and outdoor exploration, or during the magical winter season for special events like the Winter Wonderland. Purchasing tickets online in advance is recommended to avoid queues, especially during holidays and festivals. Families will appreciate the numerous interactive attractions and programs designed for children. Visitors can also benefit from seasonal passes for unlimited yearly access. The site is open daily from 9 AM to 7 PM, providing ample time to experience both the indoor Wunderkammern and the extensive gardens.
Faits intéressants
- •The Crystal Cloud installation in the garden contains approximately 800,000 hand-set Swarovski crystals, making it the largest of its kind worldwide.
- •During the 2014 renovation, Roman ruins and a hoard of 702 silver coins dating from the 3rd century AD were discovered on site.
- •The carousel designed by Jaime Hayon is decorated with 15 million Swarovski crystals on its roof and walls, illuminated with warm lighting to create a nostalgic yet modern attraction.
- •The climbing tower features 160 unique crystalline facets, each with millions of tiny animal motifs printed on them, designed by the architectural firm Snøhetta.
- •Swarovski Crystal Worlds attracts visitors from around the globe, with significant visitor numbers from Germany, Austria, Italy, India, and China.
Histoire
Swarovski Crystal Worlds was inaugurated in 1995 by André Heller to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Swarovski, founded in 1895 by Daniel Swarovski in Wattens.
The concept draws inspiration from the historic art and curiosity cabinets of the 16th century, featuring 18 themed chambers created by internationally renowned artists.
Over the years, the site underwent expansions in 1998, 2003, and 2007.
A major renovation and enlargement took place from 2014 to 2015, nearly doubling the park's size and adding new installations such as the Crystal Cloud and a climbing tower.
During these renovations, archaeologists uncovered Roman-era ruins and a significant coin hoard, linking the site to ancient history.
Swarovski Crystal Worlds has since become one of Austria's top cultural attractions, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors annually.
Guide du lieu
The Giant1995
The iconic entrance structure of Swarovski Crystal Worlds, designed as a giant's head with a waterfall mouth, housing the subterranean Wunderkammern. It symbolizes the gateway to a magical crystal world.
Wunderkammern (Wonder Chambers)1995 and subsequent expansions
Eighteen underground chambers within The Giant, each created by different international artists and designers who interpret crystal art in unique thematic installations.
Crystal Cloud2015
A large outdoor art installation composed of approximately 800,000 Swarovski crystals, floating above a black reflecting pool in the gardens, symbolizing the essence and beauty of crystal.
Climbing Tower2015
A four-level play structure designed for children and families, featuring climbing nets, swings, slides, and a vertical climbing net reaching nearly 14 meters, enclosed in a crystalline facade with animal motifs.
Carousel by Jaime Hayon2015
A modern reinterpretation of a classic carousel in monochrome black and white, decorated with 15 million Swarovski crystals on roof and walls, illuminated warmly to evoke nostalgia.
Roman Archaeological Site3rd century AD
Ruins of a Roman estate and a coin hoard discovered during 2014 renovations, providing historical depth to the location beyond the crystal art.
Labyrinth Garden2015
A green labyrinth shaped like a hand, designed by André Heller, offering visitors a playful and contemplative outdoor experience.
Contact
Téléphone: 05224 51080