The medieval fortress of the bishops of Bressanone was built in the 13th century. With its beautiful courtyard it is considered one of the most impressive Renaissance buildings in Tyrol. The “Baroqueization” of the complex took place in the 18th century, under Prince-Bishop Kaspar Ignaz Graf von Künigl, who also had the episcopal and imperial living quarters redecorated. In 1973 the episcopal see was moved to Bolzano. Today, the Hofburg houses the Diocesan Museum, the Kribben Collection and the Diocesan Archive (“Diözesan- und Krippenmuseum”).
The Diocesan Museum offers a representative cross-section of sacred art in South Tyrol: from precious medieval statues and painted panels to later art from Baroque, Classicism and Romanticism. Furthermore, traditional goldsmith's art, glass painting and furniture are just as much part of the collection as works by 19th century Tyrolean artists. Parts of the Brixen Cathedral treasure, including the famous Eagle's Chapel (“Adlerkasel”), are also kept in the Diocesan Museum.
The Crib Collection (“Krippensammlung”): Every year around Christmas there are not only Christmas cribs on display, but also detailed “Jahreskrippen” (very large cribs). The offer is completed by several unique exhibitions that take place during the year.