History Of Grundlsee

There is a lengthy and interesting history of Grundlsee that goes back to prehistoric times. Among the historical eras and occasions in Grundlsee are:

• Prehistory: The first indications of human habitation in Grundlsee come from the Stone Age, when hunter-gatherers walked the region leaving behind tools, weapons, and decorations. The Pfahlbau, a pile home constructed on the lakeshore about 3000 BC, is the most important archeological site in Grundlsee. A Neolithic society engaged in farming, fishing, and ceramics lived in Pfahlbau. Found in 1870, the Pfahlbau is today a museum and protected monument.
• Middle Ages: The Middle Ages Grundlsee first appears in history in the twelfth century, when the region was a part of the House of Babenberg-ruled Duchy of Styria. Because of the lake’s low lying situation, the name Grundlsee comes from the Old High German term “grunt,” which meaning “bottom” or “ground.” Mostly used for forestry, hunting, and fishing, the region was governed by the Admont monastery. The Ausseer Landtafel, a gathering of the local clergy and aristocracy in 1298 when they swore allegiance to the Habsburg dynasty, who had seized the Duchy of Styria, is the most significant historical event in Grundlsee.
• Modern Era: The 16th century saw the start of the Reformation, the Peasants’ War, and the Turkish invasions of Grundlsee. Another significant source of wealth and power for the area was the salt trade. The Ausseer Bauernkrieg, a peasant rebellion in 1626 against the repressive and dishonest authority of the local lords and officials, is the most important historical event in Grundlsee. Grundlsee farmer Hans Unterkofler, who later became a martyr and folk hero, spearheaded the rebellion. Many of the rebels were executed or banished once the imperial forces finally put an end to the insurrection.
• Contemporary Era: The 19th century saw Grundlsee’s modern age start as industry, tourism, and culture developed in the region. The bourgeoisie and nobility began to frequent the region, drawn by the mountains’ and lake’s recreational opportunities as well as their health advantages. With so many well-known writers, artists, and academics living or visiting the region—among them Franz Schubert, Ludwig van Beethoven, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, and Albert Einstein—it also developed into a center for the arts and sciences. The Anschluss—the 1938 Nazi Germany annexation of Austria—brought persecution, oppression, and resistance to Grundlsee and is the most important historical event in the region. The Cold War, World War II, and the Austrian State Treaty—which gave Austria her independence and sovereignty back in 1955—also had an impact on the area.