Description
The tomb of Emperor Maximilian
The Hofkirche is home to the tomb of Emperor Maximilian. This makes it one of the most important monuments in Tyrol. The grave is surrounded by 28 larger than life bronze statues, which are built after role models and relatives of emperor Maximilian. It is the largest European grave-site of an emperor. The construction works began back in 1505. Artists like Albrecht Dürer and Peter Fischer the Elder were involved in the construction of the site, too. When Maximilian passed away in 1519, only 11 statues were done. The last one was cast in 1550.
The silvery chapel
Another sight of the Hofkirche not to be missed is the S"ilberne Kapelle" (engl. silvery chapel). In 1578, archduke Ferdinand had it built as a funeral chapel. Herein, the archduke Ferdinand lies buried together with his bourgeois spouse Philippine Welser. There is also an altar, built by Anton Ort, with a wrought silver relief.
The organs
In the Hofkirche itself the visitors will discover one of the most valuable and still playable organs in the world. Every Sunday evening, an evening mass takes place at 7pm. On this occasion one gets a chance to listen to the 450-year-old sound of the organ.
There are the same opening hours on Sundays as on official holidays.
Interesting facts
- The day pass at Church Hofkirche is €8 making it one of the 10 cheapest tourist Attractions in Austria.
