St. James's Cathedral
Innsbruck
A visit to the Dom zu St. Jakob, or St. James's Cathedral, is an essential part of any trip to Innsbruck. This magnificent 18th-century Baroque cathedral is not only a spiritual center for the city but also a treasure trove of art, history, and architectural splendor.
A Rich and Resilient History
The current Dom zu St. Jakob is the third church to stand on this site, a testament to the city's enduring history and the challenges it has faced. The first known reference to a church here dates back to 1180, a modest Romanesque structure attached to Wilten Abbey. This early church was a survivor, enduring repeated earthquakes and fires that plagued Innsbruck in the 13th and 14th centuries. Over time, it underwent various transformations, including a significant enlargement in 1438 and a rebuilding in 1551. The church also had notable connections to the Habsburgs, with plans to house the tomb of Emperor Maximilian I at one point and work commissioned by Archduke Ferdinand II.
By the mid-17th century, the old church was deemed unsafe due to the frequent seismic activity in the region. The decision was made to demolish it and build a new, grander, and more stable structure. The foundation stone for the new cathedral was laid in 1717, and the current masterpiece was completed in a remarkably short seven years, in 1724. Designed by the architect Johann Jakob Herkomer, the cathedral showcases a sophisticated and harmonious example of Baroque architecture. Tragically, Herkomer died just five months into the project, and his nephew, Johann Georg Fischer, took over, meticulously following his uncle's plans with only minor alterations.
The cathedral's history is marked by a final moment of devastation during World War II when a severe air raid in 1944 caused significant damage to its interior, including the collapse of a vault and destruction of frescoes and altars. A dedicated and thorough restoration effort from 1946 to 1950 successfully returned the cathedral to its former glory, ensuring its survival as a cultural landmark for future generations.
Architectural Marvels: The Exterior and Interior
The Dom zu St. Jakob is a textbook example of High Baroque style, designed to inspire awe and devotion.
The Exterior: The cathedral's facade, made of limestone and marble, is a striking and elegant introduction. It is characterized by its concave shape and rounded arch niches that hold limestone statues of Tyrolean saints. A statue of the Virgin Mary in the gable and a depiction of the mounted Saint James, the cathedral's patron saint, also adorn the facade. These statues, created by Hans Andre between 1941 and 1960, add a final layer of artistic detail to the exterior. The most prominent features are the two formidable bell towers, topped with distinct onion-shaped copper domes that are a defining element of the Innsbruck skyline.
The Interior: Stepping inside is a truly breathtaking experience. The sheer opulence and artistic brilliance of the interior are overwhelming. The space is cruciform in plan, with a double-bayed nave and a semicircular transept. The most captivating feature is the ceiling, adorned with three massive domed vaults over the nave and a lantern dome above the chancel. These domes are a canvas for the incredible frescoes by the renowned artist Cosmas Damian Asam, who was commissioned to decorate the ceiling with scenes from the life of St. James. The intricate stucco work, a collaboration with his brother Egid Quirin Asam, provides a three-dimensional framework that makes the frescoes seem to leap from the ceiling. The overall ambience is a perfect blend of high drama and spiritual serenity, with massive columns and high rounded arches creating a powerful sense of space and light.
A Pilgrimage of Art and Faith
Beyond its architectural grandeur, the Dom zu St. Jakob is a repository of priceless artworks and historical monuments.
The Maria Hilf Painting: The most revered treasure within the cathedral is the "Maria Hilf" or "Mary of Succour" painting. This masterpiece, created by Lucas Cranach the Elder around 1530, is prominently displayed above the high altar. Donated to the church in 1650, the painting depicts the Virgin Mary and the Christ Child and has become a significant pilgrimage site. Replicas of the "Maria Hilf" are famous throughout the world, but seeing the original in its majestic setting is an incredibly moving experience. The high altar itself is a masterpiece of late Baroque craftsmanship, serving as the perfect frame for this iconic work.
The Tomb of Archduke Maximilian III: Located in the north aisle, visitors can find the canopied tomb of Archduke Maximilian III. Unlike many tombs hidden away in crypts, this one is easily visible and is a notable historical and artistic highlight. The sculpture depicts the archduke kneeling in prayer on a cushion, a poignant and lifelike representation of the historical figure.
Other Artistic Highlights: As you explore the interior, you will discover a multitude of other artistic treasures. The cathedral's nine altars, elaborate pulpit, and marble floor are all examples of the exceptional craftsmanship of the era. For music lovers, the grand organ, regarded as one of the loveliest Baroque organs in Tyrol, is a must-see. With its exquisite gilt-laden casing and 57 stops, it offers a visual and auditory feast. The cathedral also houses Austria's largest and most extensive carillon, a composite of 57 bells that ring out at noon each day, a powerful and historic sound for the city.