The 2,657 tiles are made of copper and coated in gold leaf to create the distinct shimmering effect.
The relief carvings on the balcony include a depiction of Maximilian I flanked by his two wives, Bianca Maria Sforza and Mary of Burgundy.
One relief shows a 'morris dancer' in an acrobatic pose, a unique historical depiction of medieval entertainment.
The building was constructed to celebrate Maximilian I's marriage to Bianca Maria Sforza, signaling his shift from the Burgundian to the Italian sphere of influence.
A restoration project in the 1950s involved removing 19th-century additions to reveal the building's authentic 15th-century structure.
The Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl) is the landmark centerpiece of Innsbruck’s Old Town, featuring a balcony roof adorned with 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles. Built by Emperor Maximilian I in the early 16th century, the structure served as a royal viewing box for tournaments and public events in the city square. The building now houses a museum dedicated to the life and reign of Maximilian I. The facade features elaborate late-Gothic reliefs depicting the Emperor, his wives, and various heraldic symbols. Visitors can access the interior to view the original balcony architecture and historical artifacts. The building is located at the intersection of Herzog-Friedrich-Straße and the main thoroughfare of the historic district. It remains one of the most recognizable examples of imperial architecture in the Austrian Tyrol.
From the pedestrian zone directly opposite the building on Herzog-Friedrich-Straße to capture the full facade and balcony.
Look closely at the relief carvings from the street level before entering, as they contain significant iconographic details that are harder to see from the interior.
Combine your visit with a walk through the nearby Hofburg Palace to understand the broader context of Habsburg rule in Innsbruck.
Do not assume the gold tiles are solid gold; they are copper with a thin gold leaf finish that requires careful preservation.
Closed on Mondays.
