The history of Innsbruck begins in approximately the late twelfth century when travelers moved through the area during explorations.  The major crossing point of Innsbruck was Brenner Pass which was used to get from one side of the Alps to the other.

Other than being a means to an end, Innsbruck was not really developed throughout the first centuries of its existence.  In the early days of the fifteenth century, the area finally began to flourish.  It became a city which was considered a political center.  It was named the capital of Tirol in 1429.  At the end of the century, it became the seat of the imperial court of Maximilian I.

When Tirol was taken over by France during the Napoleonic Wars, it became the center of the French administration of the area.  The area was under French control from this time through the beginning of the nineteenth century.  At that time, Innsbruck was established as a part of Austria.  It has remained so ever since, with the only major occurrence between then and now being during World War II.

More extensive information about the history of Innsbruck, beginning with the early days and continuing on through the present day is available online at http://uk.holidaysguide.yahoo.com/p-t... .