Ambras Museum

Schloss Ambras Innsbruck, or Ambras Castle Innsbruck, is not only a stunning example of Renaissance architecture, but also a museum that showcases the legacy of one of the most influential patrons of the Habsburg dynasty: Archduke Ferdinand II. As the only federal museum outside of Vienna, Schloss Ambras Innsbruck is a unique cultural attraction that attracts visitors from all over the world. In this article, we will explore the origins, the features, and the significance of this magnificent castle and its museum.

The Origins of Schloss Ambras Innsbruck

Schloss Ambras Innsbruck dates back to the 10th century, when it was first mentioned as a fortress in a document. It was owned by various noble families until it came into the possession of the Habsburgs in 1363. The castle underwent several transformations over the centuries, but the most significant one occurred in the second half of the 16th century, when Archduke Ferdinand II decided to make it his residence and the home of his beloved wife, Philippine Welser. Ferdinand II was a son of Emperor Ferdinand I and a cousin of Emperor Maximilian II. He was the ruler of Tyrol and the governor of Bohemia, and he had a keen interest in art, science, and culture. He commissioned the Italian architect Giovanni Battista Fontana to renovate the castle in the style of the Renaissance, adding a lower castle, a high castle, and a Spanish Hall. He also created a magnificent garden with fountains, statues, and exotic plants. Ferdinand II dedicated the castle to his wife, whom he married in a secret ceremony in 1557. Philippine Welser was a daughter of a wealthy Augsburg merchant and a renowned beauty and scholar. She was not of noble birth, and therefore their marriage was considered morganatic, meaning that she and her children could not inherit any titles or lands from Ferdinand II. However, Ferdinand II loved her deeply and honored her by displaying her portrait and coat of arms in the castle. He also named the castle after her family’s motto: “Amore et virtute” (By love and virtue).

The Features of Schloss Ambras Innsbruck

Schloss Ambras Innsbruck is not only a beautiful castle, but also a museum that displays the collections of Archduke Ferdinand II. These collections reflect his diverse interests and passions, as well as his role as a patron of the arts and sciences. The museum consists of several sections, each with its own theme and charm. Some of the highlights are:

The Chamber of Art and Curiosities: This is the oldest museum in the world that has remained in its original location and condition. It contains a variety of objects, such as natural specimens, scientific instruments, mechanical devices, paintings, sculptures, and exotic items from distant lands. The chamber is a testimony to Ferdinand II’s curiosity and fascination with the natural and the artificial, the familiar and the foreign, the beautiful and the bizarre.
The Armouries: These are among the most important collections of arms and armour in the world. They include the personal armour of Ferdinand II and his ancestors, as well as the weapons and equipment of the soldiers and knights of his time. The armouries also feature the famous “Heldenrüstkammer” (Hall of Heroes), which displays the portraits and armour of famous warriors from history and legend, such as King Arthur, Charlemagne, and Julius Caesar.
The Portrait Gallery: This is the largest collection of Habsburg portraits outside of Vienna. It showcases the portraits of Ferdinand II and his family, as well as other prominent figures of his era, such as emperors, kings, princes, nobles, and scholars. The gallery also includes the portraits of Philippine Welser and her children, who were not officially recognized as members of the Habsburg dynasty, but were nevertheless cherished by Ferdinand II.
The Spanish Hall: This is one of the most splendid halls in the castle, and one of the most impressive examples of Renaissance architecture in the Alps. It was built as a ceremonial and festive hall for Ferdinand II and his court. It is decorated with 27 full-length portraits of the rulers of Tyrol, from the Middle Ages to the 16th century. The hall also has a magnificent wooden ceiling, adorned with gold and paintings. The hall is still used today for concerts and events.

The Significance of Schloss Ambras Innsbruck

Schloss Ambras Innsbruck is not only a castle and a museum, but also a monument of cultural heritage and a testimony to the love and vision of Archduke Ferdinand II. He created a place that reflected his personality, his interests, and his values. He also preserved and presented the history and the identity of Tyrol and the Habsburgs. He was a pioneer of museology, as he was one of the first collectors to display his collections to the public in a systematic and educational way. He was also a patron of the arts and sciences, as he supported and collaborated with many artists, scholars, and inventors of his time. He was also a devoted husband and father, who honored and cherished his wife and children despite the social and political obstacles. Schloss Ambras Innsbruck is a tribute to his life and legacy, and a treasure for the world to enjoy.

Innsbruck, Austria