Did you know that Innsbruck, lying 575 metres above sea level and framed by the lime walls of the northern Alps, is used to dealing with five million visitors every year. The city has a population of approximately 140,000 and has always been passionate about sport, having twice hosted the Winter Olympics in 1964 and 1976 and major championships for various winter sports. In recent years the city, which is home to the University of Innsbruck’s Institute for Sport Science, has invested more than €70m in sporting facilities.

Did you know that Innsbruck possesses Europe's highest zoo? The Alpenzoo sits at an altitude of 727 metres and contains more than 2,000 animals. One of the greatest attractions is the cold water aquarium erected in 1987 where up to 50 different species of fish live in 15,000 litres of water. An acclaimed research, educational and adventure centre, the Alpenzoo is definitely worth a visit.

Did you know that the ex-Austrian international Kurt Jara was born in Innsbruck? Born on 14 October 1950, the midfielder began his career in 1969 at FC Wacker Tirol and also played for Valencia CF, MSV Duisburg, FC Schalke 04 and Grasshopper-Club. Jara played at the 1978 and 1982 FIFA World Cups. As a coach he won the title with FC Tirol Innsbruck in 2000 and 2001, before moving on to Hamburger SV, 1. FC Kaiserslautern and FC Salzburg.

Did you know that the Berginsel-Arena in Innsbruck is one of the world's foremost winter sports facilities? Originally erected as a wooden ski jump in 1926, the venue was redeveloped for the 1964 Winter Olympics. A recent renovation in 2001 has brought it up to date and is one of the venues for the prestigious Four Hills Tournament held every year. It boasts a wonderful café with a stunning panorama that offers breathtaking views over the Innsbruck mountain range. In 1988, Pope John Paul II held a mass for 50,000 people at the venue.

Did you know that the Golden Roof attraction in Innsbruck was created from 2,657 copper shingles gilded with gold? It is the only one of its kind in Europe, covering the 'Innsbrucker Altstadt'. Commissioned by King Maximilan I (1459 – 1519), it was erected by courtyard architect Niclas Türing and now you can find the Maximilian-Museum inside.

Did you know why the St Anna's Column or 'Annasäule' was erected in the centre of Innsbruck? The 13-metre structure made from red Tirol marble is a reminder to locals of an historical invasion by the Bavarians. On 26 July 1703 the fierce Tirol resistance put an end to the attacks from the north and ever since the structure has marked the 'Day of Anna'.