Things To Do In Braunau am Inn
Upper Austrian historic town Braunau am Inn is renowned for its natural beauty, cultural activities, and mediaeval architecture. Open April through October, Motorikpark is a park featuring playgrounds and fitness equipment for all ages. Symbolizing anti-fascism and the atrocities of the Nazi era is the Mahnstein, a memorial stone marking Adolf Hitler’s birthplace. Richly ornamented inside, an 87-meter-tall tower, and a well-known organ characterize the 15th-century Gothic Stadtpfarrkirche St. Stephan.
Octagonal in form, the Stadttorturm is the oldest structure in Braunau am Inn. Beautiful Renaissance in design, the Rathaus is the historic town hall constructed in the fifteenth century and is used for a variety of events and exhibits. Additionally worth seeing is the Herzogsburg, a 13th-century fortress with Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque features.
Constructed in the sixteenth century, the Fischbrunnen fountain is a well-liked gathering spot and a representation of Braunau am Inn’s relationship to the Inn River. A stone pillar bearing a palm branch and a crucifix commemorates the 1621 Palm Sunday slaughter. The Grabmal Hans Steininger gravestone pays tribute to the man with the longest beard in history, who tragically broke his neck during a fire after tripping over it.
A big pool, water slides, whirlpool and kids’ section are just a few of the amenities and attractions of Erlebnisfreibad Braunau, an outdoor swimming pool accessible from May to September. Travelers looking for adventure, cultural experiences, or leisure will find Braunau am Inn to be the perfect combination of history, culture, and nature.
Visit the Motorikpark
A great and healthy place to spend your time in Braunau am Inn is the Motorikpark, which has playgrounds for all ages and a variety of workout equipment.Situated in the green Naherholungsgebiet Im Tal, the park provides a varied and free mobility program for both residents and tourists.
Opening in 2017, the park is a component of the regional initiative Sportstrategie Oberösterreich 2025, which seeks to encourage sport and health.The idea of Motorik Dreams GmbH was devised by sports scientist Dr. Roland Werthner, who also designed the park. There are twenty stations totaling over sixty different gadgets throughout the park.The equipment test the five basic motor skill domains: strength, flexibility, speed, coordination, and endurance.
Because the equipment can be set to varying degrees of difficulty, the park is appropriate for individuals of all ages and fitness levels. The park also offers details on the advantages of the workouts together with instructions and safety advice for every equipment.Accessible till nightfall, the park is open from April to October.
The park offers socializing and natural enjoyment in addition to fitness. There are ballgame fields and a snack bar in addition to a sunbathing grass.Other Braunau am Inn sights such the Mahnstein, the Stadttorturm, and the Stadtpfarrkirche St. Stephan are all conveniently adjacent to the park.
The park is a car-free zone to maintain its recreational appeal. The park is, nonetheless, conveniently accessible by bike or on foot.There are various local, some free, parking alternatives for those who drive.
Sport, health, and enjoyment are combined in one distinctive and creative attraction called Motorikpark. It is a terrific approach to enhance your physical and mental health and to see Braunau am Inn from a fresh angle.
Explore the Mahnstein
Adolf Hitler’s birthplace is commemorated by the Mahnstein memorial stone, one of Braunau am Inn’s most fascinating and contentious sights. “For peace, freedom and democracy,” is written on a stone that was removed from the Mauthausen concentration camp. Nothing fascist ever again. Millions of deceased serve as a reminder.Reminiscent of the atrocities of the Nazi era, the stone is a symbol of anti-fascism.
Situated in front of Salzburger Vorstadt 15, the Mahnstein was formerly a small guest house where Hitler’s parents leased rooms in conjunction with his father’s employment as a minor customs official at the adjacent Austrian–German border.Only until Adolf was three years old, when his father was sent to Passau, did the Hitlers reside in the building.
The structure has a convoluted past having served as a public library, a bank, a school, and a charity.Many discussions and disputes have also surrounded the structure as many parties have put up various plans for handling Hitler’s legacy, including dismantling it, converting it into a museum, or making it a hub for human rights and peace.According to Austrian government plans, the building will be destroyed and the owner will be expropriated in 2016.
Two weeks previous to Hitler’s birth centenary, in 1989, Gerhard Skiba, the mayor at the time, took the initiative to erect a monument to the Nazi victims.The idea of Motorik Dreams GmbH was created by sports scientist Dr. Roland Werthner, who also designed the stone.Six tons or so make up the granite stone.
The Mahnstein represents social challenge and political statement in addition to being a historical landmark. It asks guests to consider the history, to draw lessons from its errors, and to oppose violence and Nazism.It also poses concerns about the accountability of the current and next generations as well as the function of culture and education in stopping atrocities from happening again.
A special and potent attraction, the Mahnstein blends ethics, art, and history. There, one can honor the memory and dignity of the millions of individuals who suffered and perished during the Nazi dictatorship. It is likewise a place to dream of a better future in which democracy, freedom, and peace rule.
Admire the Stadtpfarrkirche St. Stephan
Admiring the 15th-century Gothic Stadtpfarrkirche St. Stephan is one among the things to do in Braunau am Inn. Richly adorned inside, an 87-meter-tall tower, and a well-known organ are characteristics of the church. The tower is also climbable for a broad perspective of the town and the river Inn.
Influenced by the Landshut style of Gothic architecture, Stephan Krumenauer, the principal architect, constructed the church between 1439 and 1466.Rich residents of Braunau am Inn and the artisan guilds contributed the chapels and their furnishings, effectively funding the church.The Böcker-Kapelle is the most famous chapel; it has a Gothic altarpiece with episodes from the life of Christ.
The church includes a transept and three aisle nave with a polygonal choir. The vaults include painted flower designs and elaborate rib patterns. Stains-glass windows, sculptures, and frescoes cover the walls. Sculptor Johann Peter Schwanthaler produced the magnificent Baroque main altar in 1682. The church patron saint, St. Stephen, is shown as a martyr on the altar.
Johann Ignaz Egedacher, an organ builder, also created the church’s superb instrument in 1738.One of the finest organs in Austria, it has 3,500 pipes and 52 registers.The organ draws a lot of music lovers and organ aficionados and is frequently utilized for performances.
Third highest in Austria, the church tower is shaped like an octagon.Finished in 1507 by architect Wolfgang Wiesinger, the tower was given a Baroque onion dome in 1759.Five bells, made in 1925 to replace the old ones that melted during World War I, are housed in the tower.Open to guests on some days, the tower provides a stunning perspective over the town and the surroundings.
Remarkable Gothic in design, the Stadtpfarrkirche St. Stephan represents the town’s past and culture. It is a location to take in the music, the ambiance of the hallowed site, and the beauty and skill of the mediaeval and Baroque eras.It is also the site to discover Braunau am Inn’s past and stories, including the one about Hans Steininger, the mayor who had the world’s longest beard and perished in a fire after stumbling over it.
See the Stadttorturm
Seeing Braunau am Inn’s 13th-century Stadttorturm, the town’s oldest structure, is another thing to do. Having a characteristic octagonal form, the tower was a component of the medieval fortifications.The neighboring museum offers further information about the tower’s and the town’s past.
The tower is situated at Braunau am Inn’s historic center square, at the Salzburger Vorstadt.The village was thereafter governed by the Bishop of Passau, who erected the tower in 1278.Originally 36 metres high, the tower was extended to 48 metres in the fifteenth century.Along with a Baroque clock and the town and bishop’s coat of arms, the tower features a Gothic doorway.
There is also a museum in the tower, which is accessible May through October.The municipal seal, flag, and charter are just a few of the items and exhibits at the museum that are connected to Braunau am Inn’s past and culture.A replica of the town as it appeared in the 17th century and a collection of medieval and Renaissance armor are further aspects of the museum.
An outstanding feature of the town that highlights its history and architecture is the Stadttorturm. There, one may discover the town’s past and present while taking in the tower’s beauty and workmanship. From the windows of the tower, one can also take in the view of the town and the river Inn.
Check out the Rathaus
See the Rathaus, Braunau am Inn’s historic town hall constructed in the fifteenth century, if you’re interested in the town’s past and architecture. Beautifully rendered in the Renaissance style, the town hall features a clock and a statue of St. Florian on its magnificent façade. All year long, the town hall also presents a number of exhibitions and events.
Situated at Braunau am Inn’s main plaza, Stadttplatz, the town hall is encircled by historic structures and monuments. Hans von Burghausen, the town hall’s chief builder, also worked on the Stadtpfarrkirche St. Stephan, between 1446 and 1468. Originally two stories, the town hall has seen several expansions and renovations throughout the ages.
Plasters and cornices split the three-story front of the town hall into three pieces. Frescoes, reliefs, and local and monarch coats of arms adorn the façade.Installed in 1560, the Rathausuhr is the most noticeable aspect of the façade. It has a mechanical glockenspiel that plays every hour. Moon phase indication and sun dial are further features of the clock.
The fireman patron saint, St. Florian, is seen above the clock as he pours water on a burning home. After a fire damaged portions of the town hall and the surrounding structures, the statue was added in 1723. Resilience and protection of the community are shown by the statue.
Large courtyard of the town hall is utilized for a number of celebrations and events, including the summer festival, Easter market, and Christmas market. A well, a fountain and a memorial monument honoring the victims of the Nazi era are further features of the courtyard.
A number of chambers and halls within the town hall are also utilized for cultural and administrative functions.The Ratssaal, or council hall, is the most significant space as it is where the town council convenes and takes significant decisions. The hall features tiled stove, a wooden ceiling, and mayors of the town portrayed in pictures. On other days, including open house days, the hall is also accessible to the general public.
Other chambers and halls at the town hall include the Bürgersaal, which hosts exhibits and lectures; the Trauungssaal, which is used for civil weddings; and the Kleiner Saal, a little venue used for recitals and concerts.
Stunningly beautiful, the Rathaus displays the history and architecture of the town. There, one may discover the town’s past and present while taking in the town hall’s beauty and workmanship. In addition, one may appreciate the essence and personality of the town and take in its activities and culture.
Visit the Herzogsburg
Seeing the Herzogsburg, a castle formerly used by the Bavarian dukes, is a terrific opportunity to learn about Braunau am Inn’s past and culture. Built in the thirteenth century, the castle combines aspects of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.Impressive courtyard, chapel, and museum showcasing Braunau am Inn’s history and culture are all visible.
Situated next to the Stadttorturm and the Stadtpfarrkirche St. Stephan lies the castle in Altstadt 10.Originally a stronghold, Duke Ludwig IX of Bavaria-Landshut, who also established Braunau am Inn, transformed the castle into a ducal residence in the fifteenth century.Duke Wilhelm IV of Bavaria subsequently erected the Renaissance wing and the courtyard arcades to the castle.
Over the ages, the castle has also functioned as a jail, a school, a hospital, a military and administrative headquarters.The community of Braunau am Inn bought the castle in 1779 and it was repaired and maintained after being devastated by many fires and battles.
A museum within the castle is open May through October.The town’s charter, seal, flag, and coat of arms are among the objects and records from Braunau am Inn’s history and culture that are on display in the museum.A 17th-century town model and an assortment of Middle Ages and Renaissance armor are further elements of the museum.
A feature of the museum is the Braunauer Wandelkrippe, a Christmas crèche made by sculptor and crèche builder Johann Georg Libigo that includes over 200 figures from the second half of the 18th century.Displayed in a revolving cabinet that changes the scene every fifteen minutes, the crèche portrays events from the life of Jesus.
Photographic studio belonging to renowned Braunau photographer August Kreutz, who captured images of the town and its inhabitants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, is another feature of the museum.Reconstructed exactly from the original, the studio demonstrates the use of flash powder and wooden cameras in photography.
The town and the castle are patronized by St. George, who is also honored at a chapel located on the castle.Gothic altar, Baroque organ, and Last Judgment frescoes are features of the 15th-century chapel.Visits to the chapel are welcome upon request and it is utilized for concerts and religious services3.
Wonderfully showcasing Braunau am Inn’s history and architecture is the Herzogsburg. It is a location to investigate the castle’s past and present as well as to enjoy its beauty and workmanship. In addition, one may appreciate the essence and uniqueness of the castle and take in its culture and activities.
Enjoy the Fischbrunnen
A 16th-century fountain in the main plaza called Fischbrunnen is one of the attractions of Braunau am Inn. A bronze figure of a fisherman clutching a fish and an octagonal basin make up the fountain.A well-used gathering spot, the fountain represents the town’s ties to the river Inn.
Hans Schwanthaler, the sculptor who also worked on the Stadtpfarrkirche St. Stephan and the Rathaus, created the fountain after the municipal council commissioned it in 1565.At once meant to be a town water supply, the fountain also provided entertainment and decoration.Numerous themes, including the town’s coat of arms, the building date, and the initials of the town council members, were engraved on the fountain.
Tradition holds that until the Nazi authorities forbade him to do so in 1939, a fisherman used to offer fish at the fountain every Friday.A reminder of the town’s fishing rights on the river Inn, the fisherman also represented the town’s wealth and kindness.Still connected to the fishermen, some people think that touching the fish or tossing money into the fountain would bring good fortune.
A social and cultural draw as well as a historical landmark is the fountain.A lot of times, the fountain is the setting for many festivals and events, including the Christmas, summer, and Easter markets.Together with chatting with both residents and tourists, the fountain is a great spot to unwind and take in the view of the town and the river Inn.
Wonderfully showcasing the town’s history and charm is the Fischbrunnen. There, one may study the history and tales of the fountain in addition to appreciating its beauty and workmanship. In addition, one may appreciate the essence and individuality of the fountain and take in its ambiance and activities.
Learn about the Palmdenkmal
A memorial honoring the 1621 Palm Sunday slaughter, the Palmdenkmal, may pique your interest in Braunau am Inn’s history and culture. A stone pillar bearing a cross and a palm branch makes up the memorial.It pays tribute to the thirty-six Protestant residents whose beliefs led to their execution by the Catholic authority.
Situated in the lush Palmpark, close to the town center, the Palmdenkmal is encircled by other sites like the Mahnstein, the Stadttorturm, and the Stadtpfarrkirche St. Stephan.In order to honour the victims’ memory and dignity, the survivors and their family built the Palmdenkmal in 1622.Hans Schwanthaler, a sculptor also involved in the Rathaus and Fischbrunnen, created the Palmdenkmal.
Apart from being a historical landmark, the Palmdenkmal makes a political and religious message. It stands for the town’s opposition to violence and persecution as well as for religious freedom and tolerance.It also begs the issues of what the state and religion should do for society as well as the fallout from extremism and bigotry.
Fascinating Palmdenkmal displays the history and character of the town. There, one may study the background and significance of the monument in addition to appreciating its beauty and symbolism. It is also a place to think back, to draw lessons from the past, and to wish for a better future in which democracy, freedom, and peace rule.
Discover the Grabmal Hans Steininger
The monument honoring the man with the longest beard in history, the Grabmal Hans Steininger, is an odd and fascinating feature of Braunau am Inn. Hans Steininger, who had a 1.4-meter beard, was Braunau am Inn’s mayor in the sixteenth century.Tragically, during a fire, he stumbled over his beard and shattered his neck.
The gravestone is housed at the Gothic 15th-century Stadtpfarrkirche St. Stephan church.Sculptor Hans Schwanthaler, who also created the Rathaus and the Fischbrunnen, sculpted the gravestone in 1568.”Here lies the honourable and wise Hans Steininger, the most famous citizen of Braunau, who died on the 28th of September 1567, God have mercy on his soul” is written on the gravestone, which features Steininger’s picture and beard.
The real beard of Steininger was preserved and treasured as a family treasure, hence the gravestone is not the only remnant of his beard.The beard was given to the municipality of Braunau in 1911 and is currently on show at the Herzogsburg, a castle that serves as a museum representing the town’s past and present.Both microscopic and chemical examination have confirmed the beard’s genuineness.
One amazing site that highlights the uniqueness and history of the area is Grabmal Hans Steininger. It is a location to discover the history and folklore of the gravestone as well as to appreciate its beauty and workmanship. There, one may also study about the life and passing of Hans Steininger, a notable and tragic character in the town’s past.
Have fun at the Erlebnisfreibad Braunau
One enjoyable and laid-back way to spend your time in Braunau am Inn is to visit the Erlebnisfreibad Braunau, an outdoor swimming pool with a range of amenities. Play in the kids’ section, unwind in the whirlpool, swim in the big pool. Open May through September, the pool features a sunbathing grass and a snack bar.
Part of the Sportstrategie Oberösterreich 2025 initiative, which seeks to promote sport and health in the area, the pool is situated in the Freizeitzentrum Braunau, a green space close to the town center.Opening in 1974, the pool underwent renovations and an expansion in 2001.The Erlebnisbereich, Kinderbereich, Sportbecken und Sprungbecken are the four distinct sections of the pool.
With its two water slides, whirlpool, current channel, and underwater massage jets, the Erlebnisbereich is the pool’s primary draw.Both kids and adults may use the 16- and 68-meter-long water slides.You may unwind and rest in the whirlpool, a circular pool with warm water and bubbles.The sense of floating is enjoyed in the current channel, a circular stream of water that propels you forward.The huge pool housing the underwater massage jets allows you to lie down and experience the water pressure on your body.
With its three-story water playground, splash pool, and sandbox, the Kinderbereich is the place for the youngest guests.Children may enjoy and cool down on the water playground’s many water elements, which include slides, sprays, and fountains.Children may play and swim securely in the splash pool, a small pool with a soft surface.Children may construct and create in the sizable sandbox, which is furnished with toys and sand.
Sportbecken is the place for the active tourists; it features an Olympic-sized, 50-meter-long pool that is appropriate for international tournaments.The eight-lane pool is split up into several sections according to swimming abilities and speeds.Aqua jogging, water aerobics and swimming instruction are also held at the pool.
With a diving pool and trampoline at heights of one and three meters, the Sprungbecken is the place for the daring tourists.Safety netting and matting circle the 3.8-meter-deep pool.Divers compete and take instruction in the pool as well.
Since geothermal energy heats the pool, the water is always comfortable at 24 degrees Celsius.A solar system at the pool also supplies power for the pumps and hot water.A cutting edge water treatment system in the pool guarantees both hygienic and high-quality water.
There is roomy sunbathing area around the pool with comfortable loungers and shaded trees.A snack shop by the pool serves a range of foods and beverages including sandwiches, salads, ice cream and coffee.Along with hot dishes like pizza, fries, and burgers, the poolside restaurant offers.
Among the amenities and services offered by the pool are lockers, showers, changing rooms, restrooms, first aid, and lifeguards.A bookcase beside the pool offers books and periodicals for guests to peruse.In addition, the pool offers play and exercise areas for guests including a beach volleyball court, soccer field, and playground.
A frequent event schedule at the pool offers guests entertainment and unique activities.Among the happenings are the water disco, the moonlight sauna, and the kids’ afternoon.Other markets and festivals held by the pool include the Christmas, July, and Easter markets.
Being near the town center and the river Inn, the pool is conveniently reachable by bike or foot.The tourists can park for free in the sizable parking area next to the pool.
Wonderfully combining enjoyment, relaxation, and wellness is the Erlebnisfreibad Braunau. It’s a great spot to spend time with your family and friends and to take in the sea, the sun and the surroundings. It is a location to enjoy the activities and culture of the town as well as to enhance your physical and mental health.
