Chambers Of Wonder

Overview

Deep within the heart of Tyrol, nestled amidst the majestic Austrian Alps, lies Swarovski Crystal Worlds (Swarovski Kristallwelten), an extraordinary fusion of art, architecture, and crystal. While located in Wattens, a short distance from Innsbruck, it is widely considered a key cultural highlight of the greater Innsbruck region. At its shimmering core are the 'Chambers Of Wonder', a series of immersive installations designed to captivate and inspire. This unique destination, conceived by multimedia artist André Heller, transcends the conventional museum experience, offering a fantastical journey into the multifaceted world of crystal. It was inaugurated in 1995 to commemorate Swarovski's centenary and has since grown into a globally renowned attraction, continually evolving with new artistic interpretations.

The Chambers Of Wonder are ingeniously housed within 'The Giant', an iconic, grass-covered head from whose mouth a waterfall dramatically cascades. This mythical figure, an invention of Heller, sets the stage for the wondrous journey within, symbolizing a traveler who collected treasures of art and knowledge from across the globe. Visitors enter through the Giant's head, stepping into an underground labyrinth where internationally acclaimed artists have interpreted crystal in myriad imaginative ways.

History & Cultural Background

The inspiration for the Chambers Of Wonder draws from a profound historical concept: the 16th-century Chamber of Art and Wonders at Ambras Castle, located near Innsbruck. This historic collection is often regarded as the world's first museum, an ambitious attempt to assemble a universal collection encompassing all known knowledge and wonders of its time. André Heller reinterpreted this Renaissance ideal, transforming it into a contemporary spectacle where crystal becomes the medium for exploration and artistic expression. The Swarovski family, founded by Daniel Swarovski in 1895, commissioned this extraordinary world of experience to mark the company's 100th anniversary, aiming to create something far beyond a traditional museum.

Heller envisioned 'The Giant' as a collector of global treasures, who eventually settled in Wattens to safeguard his unique collection within these subterranean chambers. This narrative provides a rich, folkloric context for the installations, blending local Tirolean heritage with a sense of universal wonder and avant-garde artistry.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets the Chambers Of Wonder apart is their profound artistic depth and the sheer diversity of experiences offered. Each chamber is a distinct, immersive environment, a spatial and experiential concept crafted by leading international artists, designers, and architects. These creators are given the unique opportunity to interpret crystal in their own individual styles, transforming the material into living, breathing art. The roster of talent is impressive, featuring works by renowned figures such as Salvador Dalí, Yayoi Kusama, Brian Eno, Manish Arora, Arik Levy, Fernando Romero, and Iris van Herpen, among many others.

Visitors encounter a spectrum of artistic approaches, from minimalist light installations to opulent, pop-aesthetic creations, all unified by the central element of crystal. The exhibition is dynamic, with new chambers regularly added and existing ones reinterpreted, ensuring that each visit can offer fresh discoveries. This continuous evolution, combined with the artists' varied perspectives and the innovative use of crystal, creates a truly unforgettable and visually stunning journey that engages all the senses.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The iconic Giant that welcomes visitors is more than just an entrance; it's a character in a captivating legend. His crystal-adorned eyes sparkle with secrets, and the waterfall flowing from his mouth adds to his mystique. Visitors often delight in capturing photos with this famous guardian. Inside, the chambers bear evocative names such as 'Silent Light,' which features a spectacular crystal tree by Tord Boontje and Alexander McQueen, and 'Heroes of Peace,' where André Heller uses crystal optic technology to project holograms of Nobel Peace Prize laureates. Another highlight is Manish Arora's 'Ready to Love,' a vibrant, emotional space filled with sparkling messages.

During a significant expansion and renovation between 2014 and 2015, which celebrated Swarovski's 120th anniversary, the total area of the attraction was extended. Intriguingly, during these construction efforts, Roman wall remains and a valuable hoard of coins were unearthed, adding a layer of ancient history to this modern marvel. Outside the chambers, the extensive garden offers its own wonders, including the mesmerizing 'Crystal Cloud,' a monumental installation comprising over 800,000 hand-mounted Swarovski crystals, shimmering above a black mirror pool.

Visitor Perspective

Travelers consistently describe their visit to the Chambers Of Wonder as a magical, mystical, and deeply immersive experience. Many report being pleasantly surprised, often finding the reality 'much better than expected,' exceeding initial perceptions of a typical brand museum. It's recognized not just as an art exhibition but as an engaging, multi-sensory journey designed to spark imagination and curiosity in people of all ages.

The Crystal Worlds are considered very family-friendly, offering a blend of artistic installations and engaging outdoor areas. Beyond the Chambers, the expansive garden features a unique play tower, a labyrinth, and a charming carousel, providing ample opportunities for children to explore and interact. This combination ensures that both adults and younger visitors find something captivating. The experience often culminates in the world's largest Swarovski store, where the sparkle continues, offering a vast array of crystal products, some exclusively available at this location.