Archival records in the parish archives offer a window into the past of communities and, in some cases, entire valleys. The documents, ledgers, and brotherhood records document not only religious matters but also entirely secular ones. Inheritances, sales, and disputes over forests and alpine pastures stand alongside altar consecrations and Mass foundations. They offer insights into daily life, preserve numerous names, and reveal (supra)regional connections.

Notable items include artistically illuminated letters of indulgence from the 14th century in Absam, Tarrenz, and Wenns in the Pitztal.

In the Silz parish archive, a document offers insights into European history. Archbishop Johannes in Bruges certifies a copy of a document by Charles V dated September 2, 1532, from Regensburg, in which the emperor grants two lifelong pensions for loyal service to his sister Mary. His sister was Queen of Hungary and Bohemia as well as Governor of the Netherlands.

The Raitbücher (account books) from Schwaz are also of national significance. They provide insights into the third phase of construction of the Parish Church of the Assumption, beginning in 1490. It is one of the few four-aisled churches in Europe. The account books offer insights not only into the church’s construction history but also into living conditions in this mining town of European importance.

In addition to documents from figures such as Nicholas of Cusa and Emperor Maximilian, there are glimpses into the daily lives of ordinary people. For example, in March 1586, a Walter Laimgruber from Jenbach reserved “…half of the Gräsperg alp, along with half a cauldron and cheese-making equipment.”

Bishop Reinhold Stecher (1921–2013) left his mark on Tyrol not only during his tenure (1981–1997). Over 4,200 sermons and lectures from his estate are now publicly accessible for the first time. Stecher, an enthusiastic mountaineer, artist, and pastor, was in demand as a speaker both at home and abroad. As bishop, he was a guest at secular and church events in Tyrol. As a sharp and critical commentator on both church and political affairs, he did not shy away from uncomfortable questions. A few documents from the collection are presented here as examples:

The address delivered at the opening of the new synagogue in Innsbruck in March 1993 bears witness to Stecher’s commitment to combating oblivion and anti-Semitism. It also offers insight into his own experiences during the Nazi era.

A piece of sports history and a testament to his cosmopolitanism is the multilingual welcome delivered during a church service at the Nordic World Ski Championships in Seefeld in 1985.

Stecher’s speeches at openings, dedications, and celebrations are records of regional history. Major and minor events, such as the blessing of a new rescue helicopter, market surveys, and state celebrations, are documented here.