Today we woke early after a good night’s sleep. We headed down for breakfast, which was quite tasty before going to the lobby to await our tour guide.
Inns River
Our first stop was the Triumphal Arch, which was built in 1765. This arch was to commemorate the marriage of Archduke Leopold to Spanish princess, Maria Luisa. Unfotunately, Leopold’s father died suddenly during the festivities, so one side of the arch is “”in mourning” for the emperor, while the other side is dedicated to the wedding.
Hofkirche
Innsbruck became a wealthy empire from silver and salt mining under the leadership of Maximillian I. He wanted to be remembered through the ages, so he had a huge tomb built for when he died. This is the Court Church housing the tomb of Emperor Maximillian I. It is quite ornate and actually serves as a church although it’s original intent was solely to be a tomb. Two years before Maximillian died, he changed his will to include being buried in his birthplace and not in the tomb.
The tomb of Andreas Hofer is also here. It is very small, but as the “father of Austria,” he is important to the people as well.
Bell Tower
Built in 1450, the city tower is the oldest structure in the city. However, the roof is not original. It was built during the Renaissance, whereas the tower is gothic. A man used to live in the tower to stand watch over the city. In the event of danger, he would ring the bell to sound the alarm.
Bell tower is blue structure in distance.
Empress Maria Theresa
She ruled from 1740-1780. She was very progressive, especially in education. She started the first integrated school for boys and girls.
This painting is on an outside wall of a building.
Golden Roof
Here is where the emperor and empress would watch tournaments between knights or dances on the town center.
Town Artwork
A painting of St. Christopher is this orange building. He is the patron saint of travelers, it was believed if you saw his portrait in the morning, you would have safely through the day.
In the old town of Innsbruck, one can see the original walkway. By McDonald’s, there is a painting in the ceiling of the walkway. It was painted in 1507 and shows a “battalion eagle” illustrating the vast empire of Macmillan I. He once said the sun ever sets on Austria because his empire was so huge.
This sculpture honors the farmers and locals took up arms against Napoleon who fought with the Bavarians (Germans) in 1703.
Imperial Palace
Built in 1499, it was the seat of government and finance for the Hapsburg family.
Dome of St. James Cathedral
In 1249, the cathedral was first built, then in 1721 the Dome of St. James was added.
It is in the style of baroque architecture. There is a 1534 painting from an east German friend of Martin Luther, Lucas Grana the elder. It is known as the “Reformation Madonna” because it had no halo on Jesus or Mary. It is the most copied painting in Catholic Churches.
Ottoburg Resstaurant
I had my first real Austrian food for lunch. I ordered wienerschnitzel. What a surprise to find out that this was actually a pork cutlet!
The dining culture takes some getting used to. It is a culinary experience that is definitely not rushed!
High Above Innsbruck
We decided to ride the funicular and gondolas to the top of Mt. Hafelekarspitze (7,585 ft). Of course, John headed for the summit while I photographed his adventure. It was quite a bit cooler here than down in the valley.
Clockwise from Top-left: gondola ride, summit of mountain, peeking over the edge, view from the “almost-top,” Innsbruck below
Republicu Cafe
Dinner was pizza with ham and mushrooms for John and grilled sausages for me. So hoping I am actually getting something similar to a kielbasa. Well, my dinner was closer to a spicy hot dog, but it was good! John said his pizza was the best he’s had so far. I took a bite. I didn’t agree. I preferred the one we had the first night in Rome. We had apple strudel for dessert. Not bad, but I will take gelato any day!
Prosciutto and mushroom pizza, grilled sausages and fries, apple strudel
Next stop: Venice, Italy