Lienz Sights

Sights in Lienz

  1. A

    Stadtpfarrkirche St Andrä

    A Gothic gem just north of the Isel River, Stadtpfarrkirche St Andrä is a quiet spot for contemplation. Peer inside the rib-vaulted interior to see 14th-century frescoes and a pair of tombstones sculpted in red Salzburg marble. Its hidden gem is the solemn Kriegergedächtniskapelle (war memorial chapel) sheltering Albin Egger-Lienz’s eye-catching sculpture of Jesus in nought but a skimpy loin cloth, which scandalised the Vatican when it was unveiled to the public in 1925. To visit the chapel, pick up the key that hangs on the door at Pfarrgasse 13 (across the bridge facing the main entrance).

    reviewed

  2. B

    Roman Archaeological Site

    This Roman archaeological site, with an ultramodern museum to boot, is unique in these parts. Excavations are still under way to piece together the jigsaw puzzle of this 2000-year-old municipium, which flourished as a centre of trade and commerce under Emperor Claudius. Take a stroll outside to glimpse the Roman spa, artisan quarter and a reconstructed villa. The glass-walled museum explores Lienz’s Roman roots in greater depth, with interactive stuff for the kids (a virtual tour through Aguntum and dress-up costumes) and an exhibition featuring fun elements such as traditional Roman recipes.

    reviewed

  3. C

    Heimatmuseum

    The hilltop castle now houses the Heimatmuseum, which chronologically runs through Tyrol’s heritage in its atmospheric rooms, displaying everything from oil paintings to Cold War memorabilia. The tower rotates exhibitions of avant-garde works and is worth climbing for exhilarating views over Lienz.

    reviewed