Glockengiesserei Grassmayr
- History of the Glockengiesserei Grassmayr
- Bell Ringing Demonstrations
- The Glockenspiel
- The Shop
- Getting There
- Hours of Operation
- Admission
- Guided Tours
- Accessibility
- Facilities
- Photography and Videography
- Events and Programs
- Insider Tip
History of the Glockengiesserei Grassmayr
The Grassmayr family has been making bells in Innsbruck, Austria for over 400 years. The bell foundry was founded in 1599 by Bartlmä Grassmayr, and it has been passed down from father to son ever since. Over the centuries, the Grassmayr family has produced some of the most famous bells in the world, including the Pummerin, the largest bell in Austria, and the Stephansdom bell, the largest bell in Vienna.
The Grassmayr bell foundry is a unique and fascinating place to visit. Visitors can learn about the history of bell making and see the process of casting a bell firsthand. The foundry also has a museum that displays a collection of bells from all over the world.
Bell Ringing Demonstrations
The Grassmayr Bell Foundry offers bell ringing demonstrations, which are a great way to see and hear the bells in action. The demonstrations are held several times a day, and visitors can watch as the bell ringers swing the bells and create beautiful music.
The demonstrations are free to attend, and they are a popular attraction for visitors of all ages. Visitors can learn about the history of bell ringing and the different types of bells that are used. They can also see how the bells are rung and how the sound is created.
The bell ringing demonstrations are a unique and memorable experience. They are a great way to learn about the art of bell ringing and to hear the beautiful sounds of the bells.
Here are some tips for getting the most out of a bell ringing demonstration:
- Arrive early to get a good seat.
- Be respectful of the bell ringers and do not talk or make noise during the demonstration.
- Take your time and enjoy the experience.
- If you have any questions, feel free to ask the bell ringers after the demonstration.
The Glockenspiel
The Glockenspiel at the Glockengiesserei Grassmayr is a mechanical musical instrument that plays a variety of tunes. It is located in the bell foundry's courtyard and is a popular attraction for visitors. The Glockenspiel was built in 1926 by the Grassmayr family and consists of 35 bells. The bells are played by a mechanical mechanism that is powered by water. The tunes that the Glockenspiel plays are traditional Austrian folk songs and religious hymns.
The Glockenspiel is a unique and fascinating instrument that is sure to delight visitors of all ages. It is a reminder of the rich history of bell making in Innsbruck and a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the Grassmayr family.
Specifications of the Glockenspiel:
- Number of bells: 35
- Weight of the largest bell: 1,000 kg
- Range of the bells: C4 to A6
- Tunes played: Traditional Austrian folk songs and religious hymns
When can visitors hear the Glockenspiel play?
The Glockenspiel plays every day at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM.
Best way to experience a Glockenspiel demonstration:
The best way to experience a Glockenspiel demonstration is to stand in the courtyard of the Glockengiesserei Grassmayr and look up at the instrument. Visitors can also listen to the Glockenspiel from the street, but the sound is not as clear.
The Shop
In the shop at the Glockengiesserei Grassmayr, visitors can purchase a variety of items related to bells and bell making. These include souvenirs such as postcards, keychains, and magnets, as well as more unique items such as miniature bells, bell-shaped jewelry, and even full-size bells.
Prices for items in the shop range from a few euros for postcards to several thousand euros for full-size bells. There are also a number of unique and special items available, such as bells made from rare metals or with intricate designs. These items can be quite expensive, but they make for a truly special gift or souvenir.
The shop is open during the same hours as the museum, and visitors can browse the selection at their leisure. The staff is also happy to help visitors find the perfect item to commemorate their visit to the Glockengiesserei Grassmayr.
Getting There
By public transportation:
Take bus line 4122 from the Innsbruck Hauptbahnhof (main train station) to the Glockengiesserei Grassmayr stop. The bus ride takes about 20 minutes. From the bus stop, it is a short walk to the bell foundry.
By car:
From the A12 motorway, take exit 38 (Innsbruck-Ost). Follow the signs to Igls. Turn left onto the Glockengasse. The bell foundry is located on the right-hand side.
Parking:
There is free parking available on the street in front of the bell foundry. There is also a paid parking garage located nearby.
Distance from the city center:
The Glockengiesserei Grassmayr is located about 4 kilometers from the city center. It takes about 10 minutes to drive from the city center to the bell foundry.
Hours of Operation
The Glockengiesserei Grassmayr is open to the public from Monday to Friday, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. On Saturdays, the bell foundry is open from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. The bell foundry is closed on Sundays and public holidays.
There are no special hours or closures to be aware of, but it is always advisable to check the bell foundry's website or call ahead to confirm the hours of operation before visiting.
The best times to visit the Glockengiesserei Grassmayr are during the week, when there are fewer crowds. If you are visiting on a weekend, it is best to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
Admission
Visiting the Glockengiesserei Grassmayr is a unique and enriching experience, and the admission fees are quite reasonable. A standard ticket for adults costs 12 euros, while children and students can enjoy a discounted rate of 6 euros. Family tickets, which admit two adults and two children, are available for 24 euros.
For those seeking a more in-depth experience, guided tours are available for an additional 5 euros per person. These tours offer exclusive insights into the history, techniques, and craftsmanship of bell-making, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of this ancient art form.
It's worth noting that the Glockengiesserei Grassmayr offers free admission to visitors on the first Sunday of every month. This is an excellent opportunity for budget-conscious travelers or those who want to experience the bell foundry without any additional expenses.
To make the most of your visit, it's advisable to purchase tickets online in advance. This allows you to skip the queues and secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons. Online ticket purchases also offer the convenience of choosing your preferred time slot, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free visit.
Guided Tours
Guided tours of the Glockengiesserei Grassmayr are available in German and English. Tours last approximately one hour and cover the history of the bell foundry, the bell-casting process, and the Grassmayr Museum. Visitors will also have the opportunity to see the bell ringers in action and to hear the Glockenspiel play.
Guided tours cost €5 per person and can be booked in advance by calling the Glockengiesserei Grassmayr or by emailing [email protected]. Tours are available Monday through Friday at 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 2:00 PM. On Saturdays, tours are available at 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM.
Guided tours are a great way to learn more about the history and traditions of bell making in Innsbruck. Visitors will also have the opportunity to ask questions and to get a behind-the-scenes look at the bell foundry.
Accessibility
The Glockengiesserei Grassmayr is committed to providing a welcoming and accessible experience for all visitors, including those with disabilities. The foundry is wheelchair-accessible, with ramps and elevators providing access to all levels of the building. Additionally, there are accessible restrooms and designated parking spaces for visitors with disabilities.
If you have any specific accessibility needs or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the Glockengiesserei Grassmayr in advance of your visit. The staff is happy to assist you in any way they can to ensure that you have a enjoyable and memorable experience.
Facilities
The Glockengiesserei Grassmayr offers a range of facilities to enhance the visitor experience.
Restrooms: Clean and well-maintained restrooms are available for visitors' convenience.
Food and Beverage: There is no on-site restaurant or cafe at the Glockengiesserei Grassmayr. However, there are several nearby restaurants and cafes where visitors can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a refreshing drink.
Gift Shop: The Glockengiesserei Grassmayr has a well-stocked gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and unique items related to the bell foundry.
Luggage Storage: There is no luggage storage facility at the Glockengiesserei Grassmayr. Visitors are advised to make alternative arrangements for storing their luggage if necessary.
Photography and Videography
Photography and videography are allowed at the Glockengiesserei Grassmayr. You can take pictures and videos of the exhibits in the museum, the bell ringing demonstrations, and the Glockenspiel. However, there are a few restrictions. You cannot use flash photography or tripods. You also cannot take pictures or videos of the bell casting process.
If you want to take pictures or videos for commercial purposes, you must obtain permission from the Glockengiesserei Grassmayr in advance. There may be a fee for commercial photography or videography.
There are no fees or charges for non-commercial photography or videography. However, the Glockengiesserei Grassmayr appreciates it if you share your photos and videos with them. You can do this by tagging them on social media or sending them an email.
Events and Programs
The Glockengiesserei Grassmayr hosts a variety of special events and programs throughout the year. These events provide visitors with a unique opportunity to learn more about the bell-casting process, the history of the Grassmayr family, and the art of bell ringing.
Some of the most popular events include:
- Bell-Casting Demonstrations: Visitors can watch as skilled artisans cast a bell using traditional methods. These demonstrations are held several times a year and are a great way to learn about the intricate process of bell-casting.
- Bell Ringing Concerts: The Grassmayr family hosts regular bell ringing concerts featuring some of the most talented bell ringers in the world. These concerts are a great way to experience the beautiful sound of bells and learn more about the art of bell ringing.
- Exhibitions: The Grassmayr Museum hosts a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, featuring bells from around the world, as well as works of art inspired by bells. These exhibitions are a great way to learn more about the history and culture of bells.
Visitors can find more information about upcoming events and programs on the Glockengiesserei Grassmayr website or by contacting the museum directly.
Insider Tip
To fully appreciate the Glockengiesserei Grassmayr experience, plan your visit to coincide with a bell-ringing demonstration. This unique opportunity allows you to witness the centuries-old tradition of bell-making in action. The demonstrations are held regularly and provide an unforgettable insight into the skill and craftsmanship that goes into creating these magnificent instruments.
For an even more immersive experience, consider booking a guided tour of the foundry. Led by knowledgeable guides, these tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at the bell-making process, from the initial design to the final casting. You'll learn about the history and techniques of bell-making, and see firsthand the intricate work that goes into each bell.
If you're interested in taking home a piece of the Grassmayr legacy, be sure to visit the on-site shop. Here you'll find a wide selection of bells, bell-related souvenirs, and other unique items, all handcrafted by the skilled artisans of the foundry.
To avoid disappointment, especially during peak tourist season, it's advisable to book your tickets in advance, either online or through the foundry's ticket office. This will guarantee your entry and allow you to plan your visit accordingly.
