Herzog- Friedrichstrasse 15
Tel. 0512 581 111
Open: Tue- Sun
The Museum Maximilianeum, commonly known as the Museum Goldenes Dachl or Golden Roof Museum, is a small but historically significant museum located in the heart of Innsbruck's Old Town in Austria. It is housed on the second floor of the municipal building attached to the iconic Goldenes Dachl (Golden Roof), a landmark that serves as the city's most famous symbol. Established in 1996 and reopened after renovations in 2019, the museum is dedicated primarily to the life, reign, and legacy of Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I (1459–1519), often called the "last knight" for his role in transitioning Europe from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance. The museum integrates the Golden Roof structure itself, allowing visitors to step inside and experience views from its oriel (bay window) overlooking the bustling Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse. It combines centuries-old artifacts with modern multimedia installations, making it an engaging site for history enthusiasts, families, and casual tourists. The museum's focus on Maximilian I highlights his political acumen, patronage of the arts, and innovative use of media to shape his image, earning him the nickname "media emperor."
The origins of the Museum Maximilianeum are inextricably linked to
the construction of the Goldenes Dachl around 1500. Emperor Maximilian I
commissioned the ornate balcony as part of the "Neuhof" (New Court), a
government and administrative building originally erected in the early
15th century by Archduke Friedrich IV. The Golden Roof was built between
1497 and 1500 to commemorate Maximilian's second marriage to Bianca
Maria Sforza of Milan in 1494, serving as a royal box from which he and
his court could observe tournaments, festivals, and public spectacles in
the square below. This was not just a display of opulence but a
strategic move to dispel rumors of the Habsburg dynasty's financial
woes, showcasing wealth through the lavish gilding.
The architect and
builder is attributed to Nikolaus Türing the Elder, who crafted the
intricate reliefs, while the frescoes were likely painted by Jörg
Kölderer, Maximilian's court artist. Over the centuries, the building
served various roles, including as barracks and administrative offices,
but it gained prominence in the late 19th century with the rise of
tourism in Tyrol. The museum itself was added in 1996 to provide context
to the landmark, and a major renovation in 2019 enhanced its exhibits
with interactive elements. Today, it explores how Maximilian's legacy
endures in Tyrol, addressing themes from medieval politics to modern
cultural memory.
The centerpiece of the museum is the Goldenes Dachl itself, a late
Gothic oriel protruding from the building's facade. Measuring 16 meters
wide with a roof 3.7 meters high, it is covered by 2,657 fire-gilded
copper shingles that give it its shimmering, golden appearance—hence the
name. The roof's fringe features whimsical animal figures, while the
parapet below is adorned with detailed reliefs depicting Maximilian
flanked by his two wives: his first, Mary of Burgundy (to whom he was
more affectionately tied, as symbolized by his gaze toward her in some
interpretations), and Bianca Maria Sforza. Other reliefs show Morris
dancers, jesters, and heraldic symbols, blending courtly grandeur with
folk elements.
In the 20th century, the original relief tiles were
replaced with copies for preservation; six of the originals are now
displayed inside the museum. The structure balances historical
authenticity with accessibility, including a special stair lift for
barrier-free entry. Visitors can access the oriel to enjoy panoramic
views of Innsbruck's Old Town, immersing themselves in the same vantage
point Maximilian once used. The architecture exemplifies late Gothic
style transitioning toward Renaissance influences, reflecting
Maximilian's era of cultural evolution.
The museum's exhibits provide a multifaceted portrait of Emperor
Maximilian I, using a blend of historical artifacts and cutting-edge
multimedia to bring his world to life. Key displays include:
Artifacts from Maximilian's Era: Silver chalices, coins, portraits,
costumes, and ceremonial items that illustrate court life, his
matrimonial politics (which expanded Habsburg territories through
strategic marriages rather than war), and his role as a patron of the
arts and sciences.
Multimedia Installations: Videos and interactive
stations delve into Maximilian's personality as a "political genius" and
innovator. He commissioned works like the allegorical texts Weisskunig,
Theuerdank, and Freydal to craft his public image, and the museum
digitally revives these to show his early mastery of propaganda.
Original Reliefs: The six preserved tiles from the Golden Roof offer a
close-up view of the intricate craftsmanship.
Special Exhibition -
"What Remains?": This ongoing display explores Maximilian's enduring
impact on Tyrol, tracing how elements like the Golden Roof continue to
shape regional identity, from historical memory to contemporary culture.
Family-Friendly Features: For younger visitors, there are entertaining
stations, a puzzle rally, and kid-oriented activities that make history
accessible and fun.
The collection emphasizes Maximilian's
bridging of eras—he was a knightly figure who embraced Renaissance
humanism, promoted mining and economic growth in Tyrol (e.g., silver
extraction that funded his endeavors), and influenced European politics
through alliances. While compact, the exhibits are thoughtfully curated
to provide depth without overwhelming visitors.
Note that while there
are other Maximilian-related sites in Innsbruck, such as the Maximilian1
permanent exhibition at the Imperial Palace (Hofburg), which covers his
tournaments, court life, and architectural contributions using 3D models
and replicas, or the Zeughaus (Armoury) Museum focusing on his military
history, these are distinct from the Museum Maximilianeum.
The Museum Maximilianeum holds profound cultural and historical importance as a testament to Innsbruck's Habsburg heritage. The Golden Roof is not just an architectural marvel but a symbol of imperial power, resilience, and innovation during a pivotal time in European history. Maximilian I's reign marked the Habsburgs' rise to dominance, and the museum underscores his contributions to art, politics, and urban development in Tyrol. It attracts over 100,000 visitors annually, serving as a gateway to understanding the region's medieval-to-Renaissance transition. In a broader context, it highlights themes of legacy and memory, showing how historical figures like Maximilian used architecture and media to endure beyond their lifetimes.
Location: Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse 15, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria.
Easily accessible in the pedestrianized Old Town, near other attractions
like the Stadtturm (City Tower) and Helblinghaus.
Opening Hours
(as of 2025):
May to September: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
October
to April: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed Mondays).
Note: The Golden Roof exterior can be viewed anytime from the street.
Admission Fees:
Adults: €5.80.
Reduced (seniors, students,
groups of 10+, children 6–14, youth 15–18): €3.00.
Family Ticket (2
adults + children): €12.00.
Free for children under 6, school
classes, visitors with disabilities, holders of Innsbruck Card, Freizeit
Ticket Tirol, and certain professional cards (e.g., ICOM, journalists).
Combined Tickets: With City Museum (€7.00 adult, €14.00 family); with
City Museum and City Tower (€10.00 adult, €20.00 family).
Tips
for Visitors: Allow 30–60 minutes for a visit, as the museum is compact.
Guided tours are available upon request for groups and schools (book in
advance). It's family-oriented, so ideal for children. For
accessibility, use the stair lift. Combine with nearby sites for a full
day in the Old Town. Audio guides or apps may enhance the experience,
though not always mentioned—check on-site. As of the current date
(August 22, 2025), confirm hours and fees via the official website, as
they may vary for holidays or events.