Maria-Theresien-Strasse

Maria-Theresien-Straße, which is named after Empress Maria Theresa, is a wide and gently curved boulevard. It serves as a prominent shopping street and is considered a central thoroughfare in Innsbruck. The street has a rich history, dating back to the city’s initial expansion in the 13th century.This street is known for being one of the busiest in the city.

The History of Maria-Theresien-Strasse

Maria-Theresien-Strasse has a long and rich history that dates back to the 13th century, when Innsbruck was founded as a bridge over the Inn river. The street was originally part of the city’s expansion to the south, and it followed the course of the river. Over time, the street became a major thoroughfare that connected the old town with the suburbs of Wilten and Pradl.

The street was named after Empress Maria Theresa in 1804, in honor of her visit to Innsbruck in 1765. Maria Theresa was a powerful and influential ruler of the Habsburg dynasty, who reformed the administration, economy, and education of her vast empire. She also supported the arts and sciences, and patronized many famous composers, such as Mozart and Haydn.

Maria-Theresien-Strasse witnessed some of the most significant events in the history of Tyrol and Austria. In 1809, the street was the scene of the Tyrolean struggle for freedom, led by the local hero Andreas Hofer, who resisted the invasion of the French and Bavarian troops after the annexation of Austria by Napoleon. Hofer and his followers fought bravely against the superior forces, but they were eventually defeated and executed.

Another historic moment took place in 1938 or 1945, when Innsbruck, the only major city in the Third Reich, was peacefully handed over to the Allied troops by the local opponents of the Nazi regime. This act of resistance and courage saved the city from destruction and violence, and marked the end of the Second World War in Tyrol.

The Features of Maria-Theresien-Strasse

Maria-Theresien-Strasse is a wide and gently curved boulevard that stretches for about 490 meters from north to south. It has a slight slope that descends from the old town to the Triumphal Arch, which marks the border to Wilten. The Triumphal Arch was built in 1765 by Maria Theresa to commemorate the marriage of her son, the future Emperor Leopold II, to Maria Ludovica of Spain. The arch also symbolizes the contrast between joy and sorrow, as it was erected during the death of Maria Theresa’s husband, Emperor Francis I.

The street is intersected by several cross streets and passageways that lead to other parts of the city. Some of the most notable ones are Anichstrasse, which branches off to the west and leads to the main railway station; Meraner Strasse, which branches off to the east and leads to the Congress and the Hofburg; and the Rathausgalerien, which is a modern shopping center that connects the street with Adolf-Pichler-Platz.

Maria-Theresien-Strasse has been a significant public transport route since the late 19th century, when the first tram lines were introduced in Innsbruck. Today, the street is served by several tram and bus lines that operate within the traffic-calmed area located south of Anichstrasse. The northern section of the street, on the other hand, was transformed into a pedestrian zone between 2006 and 2009, making it more attractive and comfortable for walkers and cyclists.

The Attractions of Maria-Theresien-Strasse

Maria-Theresien-Strasse is not only a historical and transport hub, but also a vibrant and diverse shopping and cultural destination. Along the street, you can find a variety of shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars that cater to different tastes and budgets. You can also find some of the most important institutions and landmarks of the city, such as the town hall, the country house, the Annasäule, and the St. Anne’s Church.

One of the most popular shopping centers on the street is Kaufhaus Tyrol, which is located at the northern end of the street. This modern and elegant building was opened in 2010, and it houses more than 50 shops and a rooftop terrace that offers a stunning view of the city and the mountains. Another shopping center that attracts many visitors is Rathaus-Galerien, which is located at the western side of the street. This complex, which was opened in 2002, combines a shopping mall, a hotel, and the town hall in a futuristic design.

Maria-Theresien-Strasse is also a place where you can enjoy various events and festivities throughout the year. One of the most famous ones is the Christmas market, which takes place every year from late November to early January. The street is decorated with lights, ornaments, and a giant Christmas tree, and it offers a cozy and festive atmosphere. You can browse through the stalls that sell handicrafts, food, and drinks, and listen to the music and performances that take place on the stage.

Another event that drew many people to the street was the fan mile during the 2008 European Football Championship, which was co-hosted by Austria and Switzerland. The street was turned into a huge open-air arena, where thousands of fans gathered to watch the matches on giant screens and cheer for their teams. The street was also the venue for concerts, parties, and cultural activities that celebrated the spirit of the sport and the diversity of the nations.

Innsbruck, Austria