The Magical World of Crystals

Peace symbols in the form of holograms appear in three crystals of about 20 centimeters in diameter. Holograms of Albert Einstein or Mahatma Gandhi speak directly to the visitors and offer messages of peace. The impressive installation leaves visitors with one question: What can you do yourself to promote world peace?

Not only did André Heller come up with the entire concept of the Crystal Worlds, he also designed a chamber of his own. „Heroes of Peace“ pays tribute to all the world’s ambassadors of peace. Aside from Nelson Mandela and Bertha von Suttner, one can also see John Lennon and his wife Yoko Ono in a black and white projection.

As early as the 16th century, a chamber of wonders (also called chamber of arts) was created at Ambras castle close to Innsbruck and the Crystal Worlds in Wattens. At the time, the collection consisted of wonders of nature, as well as valuable works of art and other precious items from all over the world. Regents everywhere tried to amass treasures of nature, art and science in their chambers of wonder to show off their power and influence. Ambras Castle houses a collection of unique artefacts started by Archduke Ferdinand II. It is the only chamber of art from the Renaissance period that is still at the same location in which it originated. 

Click here to learn more about Ambras Castle, which Ferdinand II. built for his secret love, Philippine Welser. 

With the scintillating sounds of crystal in our ears we move on to the next curiosity: the carousel. In the heart of the Tirolean mountains, the Spanish artist Jaime Hayon has created a nostalgic ride on a masterpiece of his own. 15 Million Swarovski crystals bring the monochrome design of the intriguing creation to life. Its black and white features stand in stark contrast with the lush spring and summer landscape surrounding the carousel. In winter, however, among the snow-covered mountains, it looks like a crystal embedded in the white winter landscape. The abstract figurines are all unique and made of a mix of magic, human and animal elements that tickles the imagination. Decide for yourself what the surreal, humorous designs represent to you. The carousel shows us that there are no limits to the imagination. As soon as the ride starts, you leave every-day worries behind. With the mighty mountain landscape of Tirol as backdrop and sparkling crystals in the periphery of your vision, you’ll find yourself on a nostalgic journey filled with beauty and magic.