Schloss Ambras (Ambras Castle), Innsbruck (must see)

Schloss Ambras, or Ambras Castle, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region. The castle was built in the 16th century in the German Renaissance architectural style. It was converted into a museum in 1880.

The castle was built upon the grounds of a medieval fortress, which was constructed in the 10th century. During the 16th century, Archduke Ferdinand II ordered the castle be constructed around the medieval fortress as a gift for his wife, Philippine Welser. The archduke's family lived in Schloss Ambras from 1567 to 1595.

A prolific collector of art, Ferdinand ordered an area be designed specifically to display his collections. The museum is now considered one of the oldest in the world. The Lower Castle also features armouries from Holy Roman Emperors Maximilian I through Leopold I.

The Spanish Hall and the Upper Castle are also noted for art and architecture. The Spanish Hall contains 27 full-length portraits of the leaders of the Austrian state of Tyrol. The Upper Castle has many portraits of members of European royalty.

Along with works of art, the museum holds natural wonders, scientific items, toys and historic luxuries in its Chamber of Art and Curiosities collection. Items in this collection include goblets made from rhinoceros horn, bronze animals, measuring devices and clocks.

The castle grounds also hold a chapel, which is dedicated to Saint Nicholas. The chapel predates the castle by some 200 years. The chapel fell into ruin but was rebuilt and painted with an al fresco style in the late 1800s.