History Of Ellmau
The intriguing and lengthy history of Ellmau begins in prehistoric times. Found next to the Schleierwasserfall, a waterfall on the Rettenbach stream, a stone axe from the Neolithic era, circa 4,000 BC, is the first proof of human habitation in Ellmau. Elm and ouwe, which mean “elm meadow” and denote the presence of elm trees in the region, are the sources of the Old High German name Ellmau.The first recorded reference of Ellmau appears in a document from 1155, when the Regensburg Bishop attests to the church of Ellmau being donated to the Herrenchiemsee monastery.
From the 13th century until 1918, Ellmau was a part of the County of Tyrol. Throughout that time, the town’s population and economy were impacted by a number of wars, invasions and epidemics. Ellmau also saw the beginnings and end of the mining industry, which peaked in the 16th and 17th centuries when lead, copper, iron, and silver were taken out of the mines in the Wilder Kaiser mountains. Because of the dwindling mineral reserves, rivalry from other areas, and political and social upheaval in the 18th and 19th centuries, the mining sector suffered.
Following the fall of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1918, Ellmau joined the Republic of Austria and had to deal with the difficulties and developments of the 20th and 21st centuries, including the two world wars, Nazi Germany’s annexation, Allied forces’ occupation, reconstruction and development, and integration into the European Union.
Ellmau also welcomed the chances and advantages presented by the tourism sector, which started in the late 19th century and grew in the second half of the 20th century as a result of the development of gondolas and ski lifts, as well as the promotion of the cultural and natural attractions. Modern and affluent, Ellmau honours and respects its identity and values as well as its past and legacy.
Origins and name
The Old High German words “elm” (elm tree) and “ouwe” (meadow) give Ellmau its name, which reflects the region’s natural characteristics. The Bishop of Chur mentioned Ellmau for the first time in writing in 1155 when he called it “Elmouwe.” Ellmau belonged to the Tyrol County, which was governed by the Habsburg House from 1363 until 1918. Ellmau was a component of the Sölllandl historical region, which included the settlements along the Söllbach river.
Mining and farming
For millennia Ellmau’s economy was mostly centered on farming and mining. Several mines in Ellmau produced lead, copper, iron, and silver. Operating from the 15th until the 19th century, the “Schwefelbergwerk” (sulphur mine) was the most significant. The miners were inhabitants of a community close to the mine known as “Berglehen.” The mine was forced to close in 1892 because of poor profitability and environmental degradation. Part of a hiking trail, the mine tunnels and structures are still visible today.
The other primary line of work for Ellmau people was farming. They raised hay, potatoes, oats, rye, and barley among other crops. They reared horses, pigs, goats, sheep, and cattle as well. Mostly modest and self-sufficient, the farms had to deal with inclement weather and subpar soil. The farms were dispensed over the hills and valley, joined by bridges and winding roads. The state, church, and landlords all required the farmers to pay taxes and dues.
Religion and culture
Religious and cultural history in Ellmau is old and rich. Constructed in the thirteenth century, Ellmau’s earliest church was devoted to St Michael. Several times the church was expanded and renovated; the present structure was constructed in 1747. Baroque in design, the church features a high altar, multiple paintings and statues, and a stucco roof. Numerous well-known Ellmau citizens are buried in the church’s cemetery.
In Ellmau, the local families and groups also constructed a number of chapels. With its construction in 1491, the “Kapelle zum Heiligen Kreuz” (Chapel of the Holy Cross) is the oldest chapel. Gothic in design, the chapel features a fresco, a crucifix, and a wooden ceiling. Perched on a hill, the church provides a broad perspective of the mountains and valley.
Folklore, traditions, and practices define Ellmau culture. The church day “Kirchtag,” the cattle drive “Almabtrieb,” the harvest festival “Erntedankfest,” and the Christmas market “Adventmarkt” are just a few of the festivals and activities that Ellmau hosts all year long. Along with several choirs, bands, orchestras, and theatrical organizations, Ellmau boasts a thriving musical and creative community. Additionally located in Ellmau is the “Ellmauer Heimatmuseum,” a local history museum that showcases Ellmau’s customs, culture, and way of life.
Tourism and modernization
When the first hotels, guest houses, and pensions were constructed in Ellmau during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the town started to flourish as a tourist attraction. Ellmau drew tourists seeking the fresh air, the natural beauty, and the leisure activities from Austria, Germany, and other European nations. Ellmau was included into one of the biggest and most contemporary ski resorts in the world, “Ski Welt.” In addition, Ellmau has a wealth of additional tourist attractions and activities including hiking, mountain biking, climbing, golfing, swimming, and wellness.
Modernization of Ellmau also presented the community with numerous difficulties and adjustments. About 2,800 people lived in Ellmau in 2018 compared to about 1,000 in 1900. Construction of roads, bridges, railroads, electricity, water, and telecommunications enhanced Ellmau’s infrastructure. Ellmau saw a diversification of its economy as trade and services expanded and agriculture was preserved. With the flood of immigrants, visitors, and new inhabitants, Ellmau’s society likewise expanded and became more varied.
The history of Ellmau tells of struggle and achievement, tradition and invention, continuity and change. With pride in its history, present, and future, Ellmau works to be a competitive, enticing, and livable place for both locals and tourists.
