History Of Fugging

Fugging has historical roots in the sixth century AD, when Focko, a Bavarian prince whose name means “fox.” The people connected to the leader are denoted by the suffix “-ing,” therefore Fugging might be understood as “the place of Focko’s people.” Documented as Vucchingen in 1070, the name changed throughout time to become Fukching, Fugkhing, and finally Fucking in the eighteenth century. With a short “u” sound like to that of the word “book,” the name had no pejorative meaning in German.

Fugging is located in the prestigious historical area of Innviertel, which was annexed by Austria from Bavaria in 1779. Mostly Bavarian immigrants brought their own language, culture, and religious customs to the area. The local populace is mostly Roman Catholic and associated with the Tarsdorf parish. In the settlement is a little chapel dedicated to St. Martin, built in 1776.

When American and British soldiers stationed close to Salzburg during World War II discovered the community and its name, Fugging became well-known in the English-speaking world. Many visitors traveled there just to take pictures of the road signs that said “Fucking,” and some even went so far as to steal them as souvenirs.The newfound attention baffled the rural people as they were not conversant with the English translation of their name.

To combat the unwanted attention, the community put in place security-enhancing measures like closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, theft-resistant signs, and fines for vandalism offenders. The locals stated in 2004 that they wanted to maintain their long-standing custom and distinctive character, hence they rejected a petition to rename the area Fugging. A second referendum in 2020 produced a majority agreement to formally rename the community Fugging, and the change went into effect on January 1, 2021.Tarsdorf mayor Andrea Holzner has said that the choice was taken to lessen the negative connections and harassment that the locals have experienced.

The change of name has not affected the village’s tourism industry; a lot of people still come to see the new signpost and learn about Fugging’s past. Apart from its main characteristics, the community offers a number of other facilities, such as several hiking trails, bike paths, and easy access to a neighboring lake. When visitors show a sincere respect for their culture and surroundings, the villagers offer their hospitality in a kind and friendly manner. Secluded and enthralling, Fugging has a unique and fascinating past.