Ambras Castle

The Ambras Castle (Schloss Ambras) sits high above the city, and offers insight into the life of a royal family. A museum displays curious artifacts collected by dukes during their travels, while the ornately decorated Spanish Hall remains a breathtaking spectacle to this day. Look for the dents and other signs of combat in 16th-century suits of armor, or spot family resemblances in the extensive portrait gallery dedicated to the Habsburgs.The Ambras Castle sits on the site of a former 10th-century castle that was destroyed in 1133. It wasn’t until the site was inherited by Archduke Ferdinand II that it was turned into the impressive palace you see today. The Spanish Hall is a highlight of a visit to the castle. The 141-foot (43-meter) long space is considered one of the most important halls of the Renaissance era. Admire the intricately carved wooden ceiling, the portraits of noblemen and the geometric pattern of tiles on the floor. This space also provides a venue for regular classical music concerts. Check for times and details at the entrance on your way in.Ferdinand’s real passion was jousting, and the Armor Hall in the Lower Castle attests to this. Suits worn in combat by some of the finest knights of the era, including Ferdinand himself, are arranged in a display. The Chamber of Arts and Curiosities displays the scientific and artistic oddities from around the world that Ferdinand assembled throughout his life. While much of it doesn’t seem that odd today, objects like a piece of coral, or a goblet made from a rhinoceros horn, would have seemed foreign to the Renaissance dukes. The palace’s surrounding gardens, complete with resident peacocks, make for a pleasant stroll.Ambras Castle is located about 20 minutes southeast of central Innsbruck. The sightseer bus runs a regular service to and from the castle, as does the cheaper town bus service. The castle is open daily and there is a small entry fee.