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The Sound of Time – the Grassmayr Bell Foundry
400 Years of Bell Craftsmanship
Just a 10-minute walk from Hotel Sailer, the Grassmayr Bell Foundry offers a fascinating mix of history and sound. Founded in 1599, it’s Austria’s oldest family business and still produces bells for over 100 countries today.
Visitors can explore the historic casting hall, experience sound in a whole new way in the interactive Sound Room, and learn how tradition and innovation come together in this unique craft.
Opening Hours:
Monday–Saturday: 10 AM–4 PM
Closed Sundays & holidays.
A perfect cultural stop during your Innsbruck stay. Guided tours are available on request. More info: grassmayr.at
Listen now: Episode 03 - 400 Years of Bell Craftsmanship – The Grassmayr Bell Foundry
Transcript for the Grassmayr Bell Foundry
Welcome to Explore with Sailer – your insider guide to the best things to see and do during your stay at Hotel Sailer in Innsbruck.
In this episode, we’re taking you just a 10-minute walk from the hotel to a place where history rings out – literally. We’re talking about the Grassmayr Bell Foundry, a family business that’s been crafting bells since 1599.
It’s Austria’s oldest family-run company – and more than a museum. At Grassmayr, tradition meets innovation. For over 400 years, the family has passed down the secrets of bell-making, combining ancient formulas with modern research to create bells that now ring in over 100 countries.
Each bell is a musical instrument, with over 50 harmonics blending into one deep, rich tone. And in the Sound Room, you can not only hear but feel the vibrations – a one-of-a-kind experience for all ages.
The museum itself is part exhibition, part working foundry. You’ll see the original casting hall, old chain cranes, and even a wood-fired furnace still used today for massive bronze bell castings.
If you’re lucky, you might witness parts of the live production process – though full castings take months and are reserved for international clients. The atmosphere is deeply rooted in tradition – often celebrated with a prayer and a Tyrolean schnapps when a new bell is born.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 10 AM to 4 PM Closed on Sundays and holidays.
Visit the official Grassmayr website for current tour info – private visits can be arranged by request.
The Grassmayr Bell Museum is a hidden gem just minutes away from your room – the perfect mix of sound, culture, and heritage.
Thanks for joining us on Explore with Sailer.
