The expert on Kitzbühel’s history
Wido Sieberer, a native of Kitzbühel, has been devoting himself wholeheartedly to his role as director of the Kitzbühel Museum for 30 years now. As such, he has long been one of the defining figures of Kitzbühel’s cultural landscape. When asked about his favourite room, the trained ancient historian and archaeologist names the lecture hall on the top floor. This not only offers a unique view of the historic roof truss, but also a wonderful vista of the upper and lower town.
Three sections of the building, one long history
The Kitzbühel Museum building in Hinterstadt is considered one of the oldest in the town and comprises three distinct sections: the former town tower, which was once part of the town walls; the former granary; and the former forestry office, or district administration office. The refurbishment of the latter part of the building at Hinterstadt 34 was carried out with the active support of the Museum Kitzbühel Friends’ Association under its then president, Signe Reisch.
From the Bronze Age to the 20th century
The museum houses three fascinating permanent exhibitions. The exhibition on the history of Kitzbühel features numerous exhibits dating from the Romanesque period to the 20th century and provides a vivid account of the development of medieval and Baroque Kitzbühel. It also includes a prehistoric section with collections and artefacts from the Bronze Age, marking the beginning of settlement in the Kitzbühel area.
A permanent exhibition on winter sports
There is also a permanent exhibition dedicated to winter sports. Alongside numerous pieces of historical winter sports equipment, the exhibition focuses on the achievements of famous Kitzbühel ski racers – including the Kitzbühel ‘Wunderteam’ and Toni Sailer’s legendary triumphs at the 1956 Winter Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo. At the same time, the exhibition highlights Kitzbühel’s development as a tourist destination into an internationally renowned winter sports hub and a prestigious holiday resort.
The Alfons Walde Collection
The Alfons Walde Collection is a dedicated exhibition honouring the famous Kitzbühel artist. On display here are more than 60 paintings – including works such as “Alpine Pastures in the Snow”, “Auracher Kirchl” and “Ascent” – as well as around 100 prints by the internationally renowned painter and architect. With his depictions of the local landscape, Walde left a lasting mark on the image of Tyrol, thereby also influencing the region’s iconic tourist image and the concept of “Tyrol”.
Changing special exhibitions with a Kitzbühel theme
The permanent exhibitions are complemented by temporary exhibitions, which are redesigned several times a year. “It’s a wonderful challenge to take on this task, develop themes and then present them,” explains Wido Sieberer. Above all, these temporary exhibitions have one thing in common: a clear connection to Kitzbühel.
