Treibhaus (Greenhouse Cultural Center)

Treibhaus is a cultural center in Innsbruck, Austria, that offers a diverse and eclectic program of events, such as concerts, comedy, theatre, and media art. It is also an open forum for artistic and social exchange, where creativity and imagination can run wild. The name means “greenhouse” in German, and Treibhaus is literally a greenhouse for cultural and social offerings. Treibhaus was founded in 1986 and is located in the city center, near the Hofgarten park. Treibhaus is one of the nine Tirolean cultural centers that invite visitors to engage in inspiring and lively arts and culture.

The Treibhaus was founded in 1981 by Norbert K. Pleifer, a former student leader and cultural activist, who wanted to create an independent and alternative space for artistic expression and civic engagement. The Treibhaus was initially located in the Pradl district, where it served as a neighborhood cultural center and a meeting point for young people. The opening night featured a performance by the renowned jazz musician Werner Pirchner and the Vienna Art Orchestra, setting the tone for the Treibhaus’s eclectic and innovative musical program.

In the 1980s, the Treibhaus became a prominent voice in the Austrian cultural scene, hosting events that challenged the status quo and promoted social justice. The Treibhaus was often compared to the Arena in Vienna, another influential cultural center that emerged from the squatter movement. The Treibhaus also collaborated with other independent cultural initiatives, such as the KOMM, the cultural department of the Austrian Students’ Union Innsbruck, which was co-founded by Pleifer in 1977.

In 1986, the Treibhaus moved to its current location in Angerzellgasse, in the historic center of Innsbruck. The new building, designed by architects Rainer Köberl, Raimund Rainer, and Gerhard Manzl, was a bold statement of resistance and creativity. The black octagon, which contrasts with the surrounding baroque and medieval architecture, symbolizes the Treibhaus’s commitment to diversity and openness. The building also features a glass roof that allows natural light to enter the main hall, creating a greenhouse effect.

The Treibhaus continued to expand its cultural offer, becoming a popular venue for music events (particularly jazz and world music), cabaret, theater, and other kinds of art. The Treibhaus also developed a catering service, offering organic and regional food and drinks to its visitors. The Treibhaus has hosted many famous artists over the years, such as Nina Hagen, Laurie Anderson, Bobby McFerrin, Goran Bregović, and Manu Chao, as well as emerging talents from Austria and abroad.

Since 1995, the Treibhaus has been organizing an annual open-air cinema festival in the Zeughaus courtyard, in collaboration with Leokino Cinematograph, a local independent cinema. The festival, which takes place in July and August, showcases a selection of films from different genres and countries, with a focus on documentaries, art-house, and social issues. The festival also features live music, discussions, and workshops, creating a lively and interactive atmosphere. The open-air cinema festival is one of the most popular summer events in Innsbruck, attracting thousands of spectators every year.