The Fuggers in the Silver Empire

Around 1520, Schwaz and the silver region became the Silver Empire, the Silicon Valley of Europe. Not only the mining of silver and copper, but also the associated “industry” characterize the villages and hamlets of the region. With the arrival of the Fuggers, the Tyrolean trades disappear. Power, powerlessness, wealth and poverty - new times dawn in the “silver empire”. In 1521, the Fuggers take over the exploitation of silver mining in Schwaz/Tyrol. This marks the beginning of a new European era. Schwaz silver is used to buy empires, finance wars and set progress in motion. But it is not only the “silver town” of Schwaz, but also the entire region around Schwaz along the Lower Inn Valley, as well as other regions of Europe, that provide innovations with silver and also the lesser-known copper mining.

Directed by Anita Lackenberger, The Fuggers in the Silver Empire leans on a strong ensemble — Thomas Eichhorn, Peter Gstrein, Ursula Kirchner — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 2021.