The East Tyrolean Fire Brigade Museum

The East Tyrolean Fire Brigade Museum is a fascinating museum dedicated to the history of firefighting in Lienz, Austria. It was founded in 1988 by a group of local firefighters who wanted to preserve the history of the fire brigade and to educate the public about the importance of fire safety. The museum is located in the old fire station in the heart of Lienz and is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday.

The History of the Fire Brigade in Lienz

The history of the fire brigade in Lienz dates back to the 19th century. In 1870, a large fire destroyed much of the town, and in the aftermath, the local community decided to establish a fire brigade. The first fire brigade in Lienz was founded in 1873, and it consisted of a group of volunteers who were equipped with basic firefighting equipment.

In the early years, the fire brigade faced a number of challenges. One of the biggest challenges was the lack of funding. The fire brigade was funded by donations from the local community, and it often struggled to raise enough money to purchase new equipment and maintain its operations.

Another challenge faced by the early firefighters was the lack of training. The firefighters were not trained in how to fight fires, and they often relied on trial and error to learn how to do their jobs. This led to a number of accidents and injuries.

Despite the challenges, the fire brigade in Lienz continued to grow and develop over the years. In 1900, the fire brigade acquired its first motorized fire engine, and in 1938, it became a professional fire brigade. Today, the fire brigade in Lienz is a well-trained and well-equipped organization that is responsible for protecting the lives and property of the people of Lienz.

Some of the major fires that the fire brigade in Lienz has fought include the fire that destroyed the Lienz Castle in 1925, the fire that destroyed the Lienz Town Hall in 1938, and the fire that destroyed the Lienz Hospital in 196The fire brigade has also fought numerous forest fires in the surrounding area.

The Museum's Collection

The East Tyrolean Fire Brigade Museum houses a vast and diverse collection of exhibits that tell the story of firefighting in Lienz and the surrounding region. The collection includes a wide range of artifacts, from antique fire engines and uniforms to modern firefighting equipment.

The exhibits are displayed in a variety of ways, including interactive displays, dioramas, and historical photographs. The museum also has a number of hands-on exhibits that allow visitors to experience firsthand what it was like to be a firefighter in the past.

Some of the highlights of the collection include a horse-drawn fire engine from 1880, a steam-powered fire engine from 1910, and a collection of vintage firefighting helmets. The museum also has a number of exhibits on the history of firefighting in Lienz, including a display on the city's first fire station.

The East Tyrolean Fire Brigade Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of firefighting. The museum's collection is both comprehensive and engaging, and it provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of firefighting in Lienz and the surrounding region.

Interactive Exhibits

The East Tyrolean Fire Brigade Museum features a range of interactive exhibits that bring the history of firefighting to life. Visitors can learn about the different types of firefighting equipment used over the years and how they have evolved. There are also hands-on activities, such as trying on firefighter gear and using a fire hose. These exhibits help visitors of all ages understand the challenges faced by firefighters and the importance of their work.

Some of the most popular interactive exhibits include:

A virtual reality fire simulation that allows visitors to experience what it is like to be inside a burning building.
A hands-on exhibit where visitors can try on firefighter gear and learn how to use a fire extinguisher.
A driving simulator that allows visitors to experience what it is like to drive a fire truck.
A smokehouse that demonstrates the dangers of smoke and how to escape from a smoke-filled building.

The interactive exhibits at the East Tyrolean Fire Brigade Museum are a great way to learn about the history of firefighting and the importance of fire safety. They are also a lot of fun and provide a unique and memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

Guided Tours

The East Tyrolean Fire Brigade Museum offers guided tours for visitors who want to learn more about the history of the fire brigade in Lienz and the museum's collection. The tours are available in German, English, and Italian and last for about an hour.

During the tour, visitors will learn about the challenges faced by the early firefighters in Lienz, the evolution of the fire brigade over the years, and some of the major fires that the fire brigade has fought. Visitors will also see some of the highlights of the museum's collection, including the old fire engines, the uniforms, and the firefighting equipment.

Guided tours can be booked in advance by calling the museum or by emailing them. The cost of the tour is included in the admission fee.

Admission Fees

The entrance fee for adults is 8 euros.
For children and teenagers, the admission fee is reduced to 4 euros.
Family tickets are also available, costing 16 euros for two adults and two children.
Groups of 10 or more people can benefit from a discounted rate of 6 euros per person.
The museum accepts cash, credit cards, and debit cards for payment.
Visitors can also purchase a combination ticket that includes admission to the East Tyrolean Fire Brigade Museum and other attractions in the area, such as the Lienz Castle and the Regional Museum.
This combination ticket offers a significant discount compared to purchasing tickets for each attraction separately.

Getting There

By Public Transportation

The East Tyrolean Fire Brigade Museum is easily accessible by public transportation. The nearest bus stop is "Lienz Realschule", which is served by several bus lines. From the bus stop, the museum is just a short walk away.

By Car

If you are driving to the museum, you can take the A12 motorway and exit at Lienz Ost. From there, follow the signs to the city center. The museum is located in the center of Lienz, on the corner of Franz-Josef-Straße and Rosengasse.

Parking

There is limited parking available in the immediate vicinity of the museum. However, there are several public parking garages within a short walking distance.

Distance from the City Center

The museum is located in the heart of Lienz, just a few minutes' walk from the main square. It is easy to reach on foot, by bike, or by public transportation.

Accessibility

The East Tyrolean Fire Brigade Museum is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible experience for all visitors. The museum is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators providing access to all levels of the building. There are also accessible restrooms and designated parking spaces for visitors with disabilities.

For visitors with hearing impairments, the museum offers audio guides in multiple languages, as well as transcripts of all audio and video content. The museum also provides large print materials for visitors with visual impairments.

The museum staff is always happy to assist visitors with disabilities. Please contact the museum in advance to make any special arrangements or to request assistance.

Food and Drinks

The East Tyrolean Fire Brigade Museum does not have a restaurant or cafe on its premises. However, there are several restaurants and cafes within walking distance of the museum. Visitors can find a variety of dining options, including traditional Austrian cuisine, Italian food, and international fare. There are also several vending machines and water fountains located in the museum.

Visitors are allowed to bring their own food and drinks into the museum, but they are asked to dispose of their trash properly. There are several picnic areas located near the museum, including a park with benches and tables.

The museum does not have a gift shop, so visitors cannot purchase souvenirs on site. However, there are several souvenir shops located in the city center of Lienz, where visitors can find a variety of souvenirs, including postcards, magnets, and t-shirts.

Shopping

The museum also has a gift shop where you can purchase a variety of souvenirs, including books, postcards, and toy fire trucks.
The gift shop is located in the museum's lobby and is open during the same hours as the museum.
In addition to the gift shop, there are several other places to buy souvenirs near the museum.
The Lienz city center is home to a variety of shops and boutiques, many of which sell souvenirs and gifts.
The Lienz Tourist Information Office can provide you with a map and guide to the city's shops and boutiques.

Events and Activities

The East Tyrolean Fire Brigade Museum regularly hosts a variety of special events and activities throughout the year. These events and activities are a great way to learn more about the history of the fire brigade in Lienz, see the museum's exhibits up close, and participate in hands-on activities.

Some of the most popular events and activities include:

Fire Brigade Day: Held annually in May, this event features demonstrations of firefighting equipment, games for children, and live music.
Museum Night: Held annually in September, this event allows visitors to explore the museum after hours and enjoy special activities such as guided tours and interactive exhibits.
Children's Workshops: Held throughout the year, these workshops offer children the opportunity to learn about firefighting and participate in hands-on activities such as making their own fire truck.
Special Exhibitions: The museum also hosts special exhibitions on a variety of topics related to firefighting. These exhibitions are typically held for a few months at a time.

To find out about upcoming events and activities, visit the museum's website or check their social media pages.

Nearby Attractions

The East Tyrolean Fire Brigade Museum is located in the heart of Lienz, a charming town with a rich history and culture. In addition to the museum, there are several other attractions in the area that are worth visiting.

The Lienz Castle: This 13th-century castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lienz. The castle offers stunning views of the town and the surrounding mountains.
The Bruck Castle: This 16th-century castle is located just a short walk from the Lienz Castle. The castle is home to the East Tyrolean Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts from the region's history.
The Lienz Parish Church: This beautiful church is located in the center of Lienz. The church is home to several works of art, including a painting by the Tyrolean artist Albin Egger-Lienz.
The Dolomites: The Dolomites are a mountain range that is located just a short drive from Lienz. The Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer stunning scenery.

There are several ways to get to these attractions from the East Tyrolean Fire Brigade Museum. You can walk, take a bike, or take a bus. There are also several combination tickets available for the museum and other attractions in the area.

Tips for Visitors

To get the most out of your visit to the East Tyrolean Fire Brigade Museum, here are a few tips:

Plan your visit. Check the museum's website or call ahead to find out about special events or activities that may be taking place during your visit.
Take your time. There's a lot to see and do at the museum, so don't rush your visit. Take your time to explore the exhibits and learn about the history of the fire brigade in Lienz.
Ask questions. The museum staff is knowledgeable and friendly, so don't hesitate to ask them any questions you may have.
Take advantage of the interactive exhibits. The museum has a number of interactive exhibits that allow you to learn about the fire brigade in a fun and engaging way.
Bring your camera. The museum is full of interesting photo opportunities, so be sure to bring your camera to capture the memories of your visit.

Insider Tip

One little-known fact about the museum is that it houses a unique collection of antique fire engines, some of which date back to the 19th century. These engines are a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the early firefighters who relied on these machines to fight fires.

A truly unique experience that you can have at the museum is the opportunity to try on vintage firefighter uniforms and pose for photos. This is a great way to get a feel for what it was like to be a firefighter in the old days.

To experience the museum like a local, be sure to visit during one of the many special events that are held throughout the year. These events often feature demonstrations of firefighting techniques, as well as opportunities to meet with firefighters and learn about their work.

Finally, to capture the essence of the museum in a photograph, be sure to get a shot of the historic fire station that houses the museum. This building is a beautiful example of Tyrolean architecture and is a reminder of the important role that the fire brigade has played in the history of Lienz.

The East Tyrolean Fire Brigade Museum