Attractions & Landmarks In Lienz
Among the various sights that Lienz, a member of the Association of Historic Small Towns, boasts are the 13th-century Bruck Castle and the Liebburg on the main square of Lienz. At the beginning of the 17th century, the Wolkenstein-Rodenegg family built the Liebburg, today the city’s town hall. Now located in Lienz, Bruck Castle is a museum housing East Tyrolean folk relics, an archaeological department, an art collection and a natural history section. His paintings by the East Tyrolean artists Albin Egger-Lienz and Franz Defregger are particularly well known.
Lienz’s main square defines the heart of the ancient city since the current city center was built at the end of the 12th century. Located in the city center, the 17th-century Antoniuskirchl was built on the basis of a medieval facade intended for ore storage. Also downtown are the Franciscan Monastery and the historic public hospital housing the secular Church of St. Joseph.
Outside the old town, Lienz’s notable religious building is the reconstructed Gothic Basilica of St. Andrä in the Patriasdorf district, rebuilt in the 15th century after the early Middle Ages. Nearby are the old cemetery, the mainly medieval deanery created by Clemens Holzmeister with a cycle of paintings by Albin Egger-Lienz and the district war memorial. To the east of the parish church in the Rindermarkt district, the St. Michael’s Benefactor Church has a Romanesque core from the 13th century transformed into a long Gothic construction in the 16th century as a burial cemetery of the Lord of Graben, former lords and ministers of Link. .
Built at the beginning of the 13th century, the Dominican monastery of Klösterle has a monastic church and is located to the west of the town. The modern church includes the heart consecrated in 1950 – the Church of Jesus in the Peggetz area; the parish church of the Holy Family south of Lienz, the Lutheran parish church Martin Luther, opened in 1962 on the north bank of the Drau. There is also a Cossack cemetery honoring the losses from the evacuation of the Cossack camp in 1945 in the Peggetz area.
Hauptplatz Lienz
Hauptplatz Lienz is the main square in Lienz, the largest city in East Tyrol. Around 7,000 square meters make up its space; it is found in the city center. Featuring various historical and cultural sites such as Liebburg Castle, the city tower and the Mariensäule, it is flanked by lively buildings and cafes. Shops, restaurants and events such as the Advent market, the Olala street theater festival and the Dolomitenmann extreme sports championship also abound here.
Features
Divided in two by the city’s main artery, Hauptgasse, Hauptplatz Lienz is rectangular. The Oberer Hauptplatz is the northern part of the square; the Unterer Hauptplatz is its southern part. The square runs alongside seating and trees and features a paved sidewalk. The square is home to monuments such as the Stadtwappenbrunnen, the Kaiserbrunnen, the Andreas-Hofer-Denkmal and the Kriegerdenkmal, as well as fountains and sculptures.
Historical and cultural structures including: Hauptplatz Lienz surrounded by:
- The Liebburg: Built in 1605 as the seat of the Counts of Wolkenstein-Rodenegg, the Liebburg is a Renaissance structure. The structure includes a four-sided courtyard with a tower including a bell and clock. Now transformed into a museum, the structure presents the Osttiroler Schützen, the history of Lienz and Christmas nativity scenes. The tourist office and the town hall are also housed within the structure.
- The City Tower: Built in the 13th century as part of the city walls, the Gothic city tower is With a height of 25 meters and a diameter of 9 meters, the tower is In addition to an observation deck, the tower has a bell and a clock. The tower also houses a museum displaying a range of artworks, particularly those by Lienz-born expressionist painter Albin Egger-Lienz.
- The Mariensäule: Built in 1653 in homage to the Virgin Mary, the Mariensäule is a column. The column extends two meters in diameter and twelve meters in height. A monument to Mary tops the column, decorated with angels and saints. The column represents the city’s thanks for avoiding the Turkish invasion and the plague.
- The Franciscan Church: Built in the 17th century by the Franciscan order, this baroque church is known as The church has a polygonal choir with a single nave. The church is best known for its organ, altars and frescoes. The church also hosts liturgies, concerts and recitals.
History
Since the Middle Ages, Hauptplatz Lienz has had a long and rich heritage. Originally serving as a market, the district was home to sellers of goods and services as well as artists and artisans. The area was also a political and social center where the municipal council and the population met to discuss relevant issues. Among the many historical events the square saw were the peasant revolt of 1525, the Turkish siege of 1663, the Napoleonic battles of 1809 and the Anschluss of 1938.
Over the ages, Hauptplatz Lienz has undergone various modifications and repairs, including the construction of the Liebburg in 1605, the Mariensäule in 1653, the destruction of the city walls in 1820 and the sidewalk in 1890. The square has also suffered damages and losses, including the fire of 1709, the flood of 1966 and the demolition of some buildings in 1970. To honor its historical and cultural value, the square was reconstructed and renovated in 1990, 2005 and 2010.
Activities
Visitors to Hauptplatz Lienz can enjoy a range of events, including:
- Shopping: The square has a number of shops and boutiques where you can purchase regional and local products, including clothing, jewelry, crafts and souvenirs. Around the square you will also find banks, pharmacies and supermarkets.
- Dining: The square has many cafes and restaurants, where you can taste the local and international cuisine, such as Tyrolean specialties, Italian dishes, and Asian delicacies. You can also find some bars and pubs, where you can enjoy a drink and a snack.
Schloss Bruck - Museum der Stadt Lienz
Built by the Counts of Görz in the 13th century, Schloss Bruck – Lienz City Museum is a castle and museum in Lienz. It presents exhibitions on the history and culture of Lienz and East Tyrol in addition to most of the works of Albin Egger-Lienz. Surrounded by a natural park, the castle is located on a hill with views of the city and the Drau River.
Features
With a four-sided courtyard and a tower with bell and clock, the medieval architecture of Schloss Bruck – Lienz City Museum stands out among the castle’s many rooms and rooms: the knights’ hall, the chapel, the gallery and the tower room, which displays different works of art, relics and archives, are those relating to the castle. The castle also has a playground, shop and café.
Four main elements make up Schloss Bruck – Museum der Stadt Lienz:
- The Albin Egger-Lienz Collection: Born in Lienz in 1868, Albin Egger-Lienz became one of Austria’s most powerful expressionist painters and holds his permanent exhibition there. Paintings, sketches and prints covering various themes, including Tyrolean peasant life, the First World War, religious motifs and the Alpine landscape, also find their place in the collection. The famous series “Dance of Death,” which shows the atrocities of war and death, also appears in the gathering.
- The History of Lienz: From Antiquity to the present day, the history of Lienz is permanently exhibited there. The display features a variety of objects that highlight the growth of the city and its people: pottery, coins, weapons, clothing and images. The exhibition also covers the subjects of the Roman colony, medieval trade, Napoleonic conflicts, the Anschluss and the Cossack catastrophe.
- The Culture of East Tyrol: East Tyrol, the eastern part of Tyrol which is part of Austria, is permanently on display here under its culture. The show highlights many facets of East Tyrolean life, including language, music, folklore, crafts and customs. Other East Tyrolean artists include Josef Mühlmann, Franz von Defregger and Anton Kollautz who also exhibit pieces.
- The Special Exhibitions: Each year the special exhibitions, focusing on varied themes, such as modern art, photography, archeology and natural history, change. Guest artists such as Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele and Oskar Kokoschka also display their works in special exhibitions.
History
Since the 13th century, Schloss Bruck – Museum der Stadt Lienz has had a rich and extensive heritage. Overlooking Tyrol and Carinthia, the Meinhardiner counts of Görz erected the fortress in 1278. Until 1500, the counts and their descendants, the Habsburgs, lived at the castle. Later uses of the castle included military fortification, incarceration, medical care and education.
Purchased by the city of Lienz in 1942, the castle was transformed into a museum in 1943. After the end of the Second World War, the museum was opened to the general public in 1945. Dedicated to the works of Albin Egger-Lienz, who died in 1926 and gave his paintings to the community, the museum The museum also presented the collections of the former Heimatmuseum, established in 1903 and displaying many objects related to the history and culture of Lienz and East Tyrol.
Over the years, the museum has undergone various restorations and additions, including the restoration of the castle in 1960, the construction of the new gallery in 1978, the repair of the chapel in 1988 and the modernization of the exhibition hall in 1998. Among the many events and activities offered by the museum were concerts, seminars, workshops and guided tours.
Exhibitions
Visitors to Schloss Bruck – Museum der Stadt Lienz can experience a range of exhibitions, including:
- The Albin Egger-Lienz Collection: Born in Lienz in 1868, Albin Egger-Lienz became one of Austria’s most powerful expressionist painters and holds his permanent exhibition there. Paintings, sketches and prints covering various themes, including Tyrolean peasant life, the First World War, religious motifs and the Alpine landscape, also find their place in the collection. The famous series “Dance of Death,” which shows the atrocities of war and death, also appears in the gathering.
- The History of Lienz: From Antiquity to the present day, the history of Lienz is permanently exhibited there. The display features a variety of objects that highlight the growth of the city and its people: pottery, coins, weapons, clothing and images. The exhibition also covers the subjects of the Roman colony, medieval trade, Napoleonic conflicts, the Anschluss and the Cossack catastrophe.
- The Culture of East Tyrol: East Tyrol, the eastern part of Tyrol which is part of Austria, is permanently on display here under its culture. The show highlights many facets of East Tyrolean life, including language, music, folklore, crafts and customs. Other East Tyrolean artists include Josef Mühlmann, Franz von Defregger and Anton Kollautz who also exhibit pieces.
- The Special Exhibitions: Each year the special exhibitions, focusing on varied themes, such as modern art, photography, archeology and natural history, change. Guest artists such as Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele and Oskar Kokoschka also display their works in special exhibitions.
Nationalpark Hohe Tauern
Spanning 1,856 km² and spanning three federal states: Tyrol, Salzburg and Carinthia, the Hohe Tauern National Park is the largest nature reserve in the Austrian Alps. Numerous glaciers, waterfalls and animals such as the golden eagle, the ibex and the marmot inhabit the park. In addition to guided tours and educational activities, the park offers numerous hiking, biking, skiing and snowshoeing opportunities.
Features
The Hohe Tauern National Park offers a varied and astonishing landscape including several natural elements, including:
- Mountains: Among the more than 300 mountains in the park are the Großvenediger, the highest mountain in Salzburg at 3,666 meters and the Großglockner, the highest mountain in Austria at 3,798 meters. Mountains also abound in the park; the Hohe Tauern, the Venediger Group, the Glockner Group and the Granatspitze Group all stop there.
- Glaciers: With around 240 glaciers spanning 130 km² and storing around 10 billion cubic meters of ice, the park includes the Pasterze, 8.4 km long and 1.8 km wide, the park has the largest glacier in the Alps oriental. In addition to many other glaciers, the park is home to the Keeskogel, the Schlatenkees and the Umbalkees.
- Waterfalls: Melting snow and ice feed the park’s more than 550 waterfalls. With a total height of 380 meters and a flow rate of 5.6 cubic meters per second, the park has the highest waterfall in Europe. Other waterfalls in the park include Gartl, Gschlöss and Umbalfälle.
- Wildlife: Around forty percent of Austrian fauna is represented in the park among more than 10,000 animal species. Some rare and endangered species found in the park include the golden eagle, ibex, marmot, bearded vulture and alpine salamander. Among the many other animals found in the park are the chamois, red deer, fox and alpine marmot.
History
Prehistoric times mark the long and rich history of the Hohe Tauern National Park. Among the many peoples and civilizations living in the park were the Celts, Romans, Bavarians and Slavs. Other historical events that have shaped the park have been Christianization, mining, tourism and preservation.
After decades of negotiations and efforts by many stakeholders, including local residents, environmentalists, scientists and politicians, the park was inaugurated in 1981. Initially consisting of three main areas: the national park Hohe Tauern in Tyrol, Hohe Tauern National Park in Tyrol and Hohe Tauern National Park in Tyrol. Salzburg and the Hohe Tauern National Park in Carinthia: the park was the first. Later, the park was consolidated and expanded to become the largest nature reserve in the Alps.
In addition to encouraging and contributing to sustainable development as well as the education of local people and visitors, the park seeks to safeguard the natural and cultural heritage of the region. The National Park Administration manages the park; it includes the National Park Board, the National Park Branch and the National Park Rangers.
Activities
Visitors to the Hohe Tauern National Park can enjoy a range of activities, including:
- Hiking: The park has more than 1,000 kilometers of hiking trails, ranging from small to long, easy to difficult. Other hiking trails in the park include the Alpe-Adria Trail, the Venediger High Trail, the Tauern High Trail and the Glasner Round. The park also has many hiking huts, such as the Stüdlhütte, the Kürsingerhütte, and the Essener-Rostocker-Hütte.
- Biking: The park has over 500km of cycling trails suitable for road bikes, e-bikes and mountain bikes. Among the many cycle paths in the park are the Pustertal cycle path, the Isel cycle path, the Drau cycle path and the Dolomites cycle path. Additionally, many gas and bike rental stations in the park include Bike & Fun, Bike & Hike, and Bike & More.
- Skiing: The park has more than 200 kilometers of ski slopes suitable for alpine, cross-country and touring skiing. Other ski resorts in the park include Heiligenblut, Zettersfeld, Hochstein and Matrei-Kals. Among the park’s many ski schools and rental shops are Lienz Ski School, Matrei Ski School and Ski Rental Lienz.
- Snowshoeing: The park has more than 100 kilometers of snowshoe trails suitable for beginners and advanced athletes. Other snowshoe trails in the park include the Gschlöss, the Zunig, the Innergschlöss and the iglubilck. Among the many snowshoe rentals and guided tours available in the park are Snowshoe Rental Lienz, Snowshoe Rental Matrei and Snowshoe Tour Lienz.
- Guided Tours: The park offers more than three hundred guided excursions, suitable for different interests and ages. The park offers many guided tours such as Nature Experience, Cultural Experience, Glacier Safari and Wildlife Observation. Many guides and rangers, certified to provide information and safety, also reside in the park.
Kletterpark Schlossberg Lienz
Next to the Schloss Bruck – Museum der Stadt Lienz, on the Schlossberg hill, the Kletterpark Schlossberg Lienz is an adventure park. For varying degrees of difficulty and age groups, the park offers rope bridges, ziplines and climbing walls among its courses and challenges. In addition to this exciting and fun sleigh ride down the hill, the park has the Osttirodler Alpine Coaster.
Features
Divided into four categories: Children, Family, Adventure and Extreme, Kletterpark Schlossberg Lienz offers a total of eighteen courses. The varying heights, lengths and challenges of the courses test players’ endurance, skills and courage. A constant belay system used throughout the courses guarantees the comfort and safety of participants. Different colors on the courses also indicate the minimum age required and the degree of difficulty.
The Kletterpark Schlossberg Lienz, which starts from the Moosalm hut and ends at the foot of the Schlossberg hill, is also home to a year-round toboggan run known as the Ostirodler Alpine Coaster. With a height difference of 400 m and a length of 2.7 km, the coaster With 25 turns, 7 jumps and 2 tunnels that offer an exciting and picturesque view, the coaster gives coaster participants the opportunity to vary the pace and distance from other sleds using a speed control system.
History
Opened in 2010 as part of the Erlebnisberg Schlossberg Lienz initiative, Kletterpark Schlossberg Lienz sought to create a fresh and attractive leisure location in Lienz. Based in Innsbruck and specializing in the construction and operation of adventure parks, Kletterpark GmbH designed and built the park. The natural and cultural environment rich in history and biodiversity of the Schlossberg hill inspired the park.
Added in 2011 as a complementary attraction to Kletterpark Schlossberg Lienz, the Ostirodler Alpine Coaster Based in Germany and the world’s leading producer of alpine coasters, the Wiegand company created and built the roller coaster. The coaster is named after the Osttiroler Schützen, the local militiamen defending Tyrolean customs.
Activities
Visitors to Kletterpark Schlossberg Lienz can enjoy many events, including:
- Climbing: The park has eighteen routes suitable for beginners and specialists, children and adults, individuals and groups. From the age of two, the park offers courses for children; from six years old, family; from ten years old, adventure; from fourteen years old, extreme. The park’s courses vary in height from 1 to 20 m, in length from 50 to 300 m and in number of obstacles from 5 to 25. Courses with varied themes abound in the park, including the mountain course, the castle, the Jungle course and the Pirate course.
- Coasting: The park offers the Ostirodler Alpine Coaster, suitable for all ages, from three years old (with an adult) to 99 years old. The roller coaster covers 2.7 km and has a height difference of 400 m. With 25 turns, 7 jumps and 2 tunnels that offer an exciting and picturesque view, the roller coaster offers participants the ability to change the speed and distance from other sleds through the roller coaster’s speed control mechanism.
Kletterpark Schlossberg Lienz also offers other amenities and services, including:
- Café: Located at the entrance to the park, the café is located in the park. Besides a wonderful view of the city and the mountains, the café offers snacks, drinks and ice cream.
- Store: Located at the exit of the park, the park has a store. The store sells t-shirts, caps, mugs and magnets among accessories, gifts and souvenirs.
- Playground: Next to the cafe is a playground in the park. For younger children, the play area includes swings, slides and sandboxes, among other activities and tools.
- Bikepark: next to the Osttirodler Alpine Coaster, the park has a bikepark. For mountain bike enthusiasts, the bikepark offers several trails and challenges like jumps, drops and berms.
- Streichelzoo: Next to the Moosalm mountain hut there is a petting zoo in the park. Visitors to the petting zoo can feed and touch several animals, including goats, lambs, rabbits, ponies and llamas.
Tristachersee
About 4 kilometers south of Lienz, at an altitude of 846 meters above sea level, the Tristachersee is a natural lake. In summer, the lake is a popular place for swimming, sunbathing and picnics; in winter it is a place for ice skating and curling. Not far from the lake there is a hotel, restaurant and campground.
Features
Around 7.1 hectares in area and a maximum depth of around 15 meters define the Tristachersee. The Tristacher Bach, a small stream from the Lienz Dolomites, feeds the lake and flows into the Drau, the main river in East Tyrol. The lake freezes in winter and offers clear, clean water with a temperature of 20°C in summer. Water lilies, reeds, frogs, fish and birds, among other rich and varied plants and animals, abound in the lake.
For guests, the Tristachersee offers several amenities and conveniences, including:
- Restaurant: North of the lake, there is a restaurant. The restaurant serves salads, pastas, pizzas and Tyrolean specialties, among other local and foreign dishes. The restaurant also has a balcony, playground and mini golf.
- Camping: On the south side of the lake there is a camping area. In addition to bungalows and apartments for rent, the campsite offers spaces for tents, caravans and motorhomes. The campsite also has a sanitary structure, a store, a bar and a grill.
- Hotel: Near the campsite there is a hotel on the lake. The hotel offers a wellness center, restaurant, bar, as well as rooms and suites. The hotel has bicycle rental, a tennis court and a private beach.
History
The Tristachersee has a long and rich past dating back to prehistoric times. A glacial moraine developed the lake; he blocked the Tristacher Bach and produced an organic basin. Among the many peoples and civilizations who called the lake home were the Illyrians, Romans, Bavarians and Slavs. Different historical events, such as Christianization, mining, tourism and conservation, have also shaped the lake.
Originally noted in a document dating from 1225 as “Tristach”, the lake had the Slavic name “trst”, meaning “reed”. The counts of Görz controlled Tyrol and Carinthia, thus owning the lake. The lake was then ceded to the Habsburgs, who leased it to the city of Lienz). The lake was a recreational area, water reserve and fish pond.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, the lake attracted many visitors because it offered a pleasant and peaceful environment as well as other sporting and leisure activities. Many events and competitions, including swimming races, curling competitions and ice skating championships, have also been held at the lake. Many writers and artists, including the painter Franz von Defregger and the novelist Ludwig Ganghofer, also found inspiration for the lake.
Declared a natural monument in 1978, the lake has been identified as a cultural and historical heritage as well as an invaluable environment. Various measures have been taken to safeguard and preserve the lake: water level control, restriction of motorboats and promotion of environmental education.
Activities
Visitors to Tristachersee can enjoy a range of events, including:
- Swimming: Thanks to its clean water, at around 20°C in summer, the lake is a fantastic place for swimming. On the north shore of the lake is the public beach. In addition to a pier, a slide and a diving board, the beach includes a grassy area. In addition to toilets, a changing room, a shower and a lifeguard, the beach boasts.
- Sunbathing: Thanks to its sunny and pleasant temperature, which extends from May to September, the lake is an ideal place for sunbathing. Various deckchairs and parasols are available for rental around the lake. Under the trees there is also a shaded part of the lake.
- Picnicking: Picnicing is an interesting activity around the lake as it provides a beautiful and calm setting, perfect for recreation and appreciation of the surroundings. Around the lake are various picnic tables and seats. Next to the campsite, the lake has a grilling area.
- Ice skating: Since the lake freezes in the winter and creates an organic ice rink, it’s a fantastic location for this sport. On the north side of the lake, on its skating area, is the skating area. It has skate rental, a lighting system and a sound system. Next to the skating area is a curling rink in the skating area.
- Hiking: The lake presents a fantastic landscape with several walks and trails thanks to its beautiful diversity. Approximately 2 km long and approximately 30 minutes long, the lake has a circular trail. The trail offers a panoramic perspective of the lake and mountains as it winds around it. The hotel, campsite and restaurant are also on the trail.
- Biking: The lake is an excellent place for all types of riders since its level and simple topography suit them. Approximately 4 km long, the cycle path around the lake connects it to the town of Lienz. Offering a picturesque and safe ride, the cycle path follows the Tristacher Bach and the Drau. Also passing through the cycle path is the Kletterpark Schlossberg Lienz, an adventure park with numerous routes and challenges for all degrees of difficulty and age groups.
St. Andra (Church of St. Andrew)
Built on the site of a Romanesque church, Sainte-Andra (Saint-André Church) is a 15th century Gothic church. Rising to a height above the town, the church offers a magnificent perspective of the mountains and the valley. The church is famous for its paintings, its organ and its cemetery, which houses the tombstones of several prominent residents of Lienz, such as the painter Albin Egger-Lienz and the historian Peter Wiesflecker.
Features
Separated by a triumphal arch, the single nave and the polygonal choir of the Saint-André church have. On the south side of the nave is a church tower with a bell and a clock. The church is forty meters long and fourteen meters wide. The church is eighteen meters high, with a forty-five meter tower.
Various works of art and decorations abound in St. Andra Church (Saint-André Church). These include:
- Frescoes: The church has frescoes covering the walls and ceiling of the nave and choir from the 15th and 16th centuries. Besides the Last Judgment and the Dance of Death, the paintings capture many events from the lives of Christ, the saints and the apostles. Among the many artists credited for the frescoes are Simon von Taisten, Michael Pacher and Leonhard von Brixen.
- Organ: Built by the famous Tyrolean organ builder Johann Georg Gröber in 1737, the church has an organ dating from 25 registers and 1,500 pipes. Rich and harmonious music is produced by the organ. Paintings and sculptures depicting angels, cherubim and musical instruments adorn the organ.
- Altars: Built of marble and wood, the church houses various altars from the 17th and 18th centuries. Featuring a statue of Saint Andrew, the patron saint of the church, the high altar honors him with a cross. Other saints honored on the side altars include Saint Anthony, Saint Francis and Saint Barbara.
History
Since the 12th century, the Saint-Andra Church (Saint-André Church) has had a rich and ancient heritage. Built by the counts of Görz, who governed Tyrol and Carinthia, the church was initially Romanesque. The choir, the tower and the frescoes added in the 15th century allowed the church to become Gothic. The organ, altars and Baroque elements added in the 17th and 18th centuries made it possible to enlarge and rebuild the church.
Among the historical events the cathedral saw were the Peasant Rebellion of 1525, the Turkish Siege of 1663, the Napoleonic battles of 1809 and the Anschluss of 1938. Along with many events and rituals including baptisms, weddings and funerals for the local clergy and nobles, the cathedral also welcomed During plagues and wars, the church also served as a hospital for the sick and injured as well as a refuge.
Declared a cultural monument in 1977, the church has been identified as a priceless and singular example of Tyrolean Gothic and Baroque architecture and art. Different measures were taken to save and preserve the church: the altars, the organ and the frescoes were restored; a heating and lighting system was installed.
Significance
Representing the religious and cultural heritage of the region, St. Andra Church (St. Andrew’s Church) is a major and symbolic site for the city of Lienz and the East Tyrol region. In addition to a place of art and history, the church is a place of prayer and worship. In addition to a place of community and solidarity, the Church is a place of memory and identity. The church is a place of peace and harmony as well as spirituality and beauty.
Felbertauern Strasse
Crossing the Hohe Tauern mountain range, the Felbertauern Strace is a high mountain road linking East Tyrol and Salzburg. The 36 kilometer route rises to its height of 1,632 meters above sea level. For visitors, the route is a popular path as it provides a convenient and scenic way to reach the Hohe Tauern National Park and other local attractions. With a length of 5.3 kilometers, the Felbertauern tunnel is the longest road tunnel in Austria.
Features
Felbertauern Strace offers guests several amenities and features, including:
- Road: With two lanes, one in each direction, the route is subject to a speed limit of 80 km/h. The road offers a challenging but fun driving experience with its various turns, bridges and viaducts. In addition to parking lots, rest areas and numerous viewpoints, the route offers a panoramic perspective of the valley and the mountains.
- Tunnel: With two lanes, one in each direction, and a speed limit of 60 km/h, the tunnel is a single-tube tunnel. The tunnel’s ventilation system, lighting system and emergency system guarantee the comfort and safety of drivers. Also in the tunnel is a toll booth charging 11 euros for cars and 18 euros for buses.
- Museum: The museum is located in the village of Mittersill, at the northern entrance to the tunnel. Models, images and films, among other artifacts, show the construction and history of the road and tunnel. The museum also has a playground, shop and café.
History
The Felbertauern Strace has a rich and extensive history dating back thousands of years. The route follows the paths of an ancient Roman road used by trade and visitors crossing the Alps. Along the way, pilgrims, troops and smugglers, who left traces and stories, also took it. Other historical events such as wars, epidemics and avalanches have also shaped the path.
Originally designed to connect the isolated region of East Tyrol to the rest of Austria and thus boost the local economy and tourism, the route was developed in the 1920s. Engineer Franz Wallack designed and planned the road ; he also built the Grossglockner High Alpine Road. With the collaboration of the federal government, provincial governments and the business sector, the road was constructed in the 1950s and 1960s. Once the tunnel was completed, the road was opened to the general public in 1967.
Over the years, the road has undergone numerous developments including the widening of the road, the installation of safety barriers and the modernization of the tunnel. In addition to extensive damage and closures, rockfalls in 2013 destroyed a bridge and closed the road for several months. In 2014, the route was reopened following the construction of a new bridge and a bypass.
Significance
Representing the engineering and creativity of the road and tunnel building, the Felbertauern Strace is a major and symbolic site for the East Tyrol area and the nation of Austria. The road is a site of tourism and culture as well as of mobility and connectivity. Along with historical legacy, the route is a site of adventure and beauty.
Streichelzoo Moosalm
Nestled on the popular hiking, cycling and skiing destination Moosalm Mountain Hut, Streichelzoo Moosalm is a petting zoo. Visitors to the petting zoo can feed and touch several animals, including goats, lambs, rabbits, ponies and llamas. The petting zoo has a café, mini golf course and playground.
Features
With an area of almost two hectares and a maximum altitude of 1,506 meters above sea level, the Streichelzoo Moosalm is open from May to October, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., the petting zoo is free. The petting zoo offers its visitors several facilities and services, including:
- Animals: Featuring more than a hundred species, the petting zoo features domestic animals including goats, sheep, rabbits, chickens, ducks and geese, which abound in the petting zoo; Exotic animals include ponies, llamas, alpacas and donkeys. Fish, frogs and turtles inhabit the petting zoo’s pond.
- The petting zoo’s play area is located next to the animals. For younger children, the play area includes swings, slides, sandboxes and trampolines among its many activities and toys. Also ideal for all ages, the playground includes an eighteen-hole miniature golf course.
- Cafe: Comprised of Moosalm Mountain Hut, the petting zoo has a cafe. Besides a wonderful view of the city and mountains, the café offers food, drinks and ice cream. The cafe also has a terrace ideal for leisure and environmental appreciation.
History
Built in the 19th century, Streichelzoo Moosalm has a long and rich heritage. Originally a farm, the petting zoo belonged to the family of the famous painter Josef Mühlmann, based in East Tyrol. Among the many animals raised and raised on the farm were cows, horses, pigs and chickens. Local painters, who came to visit and paint the animals and the surrounding area, also found great appeal at the farm.
The family of Franz Walder, the current owner of Moosalm Mountain Hut, opened the petting zoo in 1990. Designed to provide visitors, especially younger ones who might learn more about the animals and their behavior, with an enjoyable experience and informative, the petting zoo The zoo was developed. The petting zoo was also intended to protect and advance the sustainability and biodiversity of the region.
Over the years, the petting zoo has changed and improved in many ways, including acquiring fresh animals, repairing playgrounds and renovating cafes. The petting zoo also hosted birthday celebrations, meals, and animal exhibits, among other events and activities.
Activities
Visitors to the Streichelzoo Moosalm can enjoy various events, including:
- Feeding the animals at the petting zoo allows visitors to interact and bond with them in a very effective way. Purchased from the cafe, the petting zoo provides food and drinks for the animals. The petting zoo’s feeding hours are also between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., when staff members and guests can feed the animals together.
- The petting zoo allows visitors to interact with the animals, helping them learn and value their traits and personality. The friendly and gentle animals housed in the petting zoo are meant for human interaction and cuddling fun. Staff and volunteers also abound in the petting zoo, who can assist and mentor guests in handling the animals.
- Playing with the animals at the petting zoo is a fantastic way for guests to have fun and get active among them. The playful and lively animals seen in the petting zoo prefer to run, jump and run with people. In addition to a mini golf course and playground, the petting zoo offers other games and toys for guests.
Liebburg
Among the most striking and unique buildings in Lienz is a castle with a history, the Liebburg. Built in 1605, it was the residence of the counts of Wolkenstein-Rodenegg of Lienz, then rulers of the city. Designed with four corner towers, a courtyard and a loggia, the Renaissance-style castle was built by Italian architect Pietro Orsolini. The family coat of arms, which depicted a lion (Löwe in German), contributed to the castle’s name.
Until the counts ceded it to the Habsburgs in 1653, the Liebburg was their home and administrative base. The castle later housed the court of justice and the seat of district government. A fire started by French troops residing in Lienz during the Napoleonic Wars devastated the castle in 1809. Although it lost some of its original features, including the frescoes and loggia, the castle was rebuilt in 1810.
The castle was purchased by Lienz in 1938 and transformed into a municipal hall. The castle also houses a museum presenting the history and culture of East Tyrol as well as that of Lienz. The museum displays paintings, sculptures, furniture, clothing, weapons and folk art in addition to archaeological objects. The museum also hosts annual events and temporary exhibitions.
From Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., the Liebburg is open to the public. Children pay 1.5 euros; adults pay 3 euros as entrance fee. Guided excursions on request are available. The castle is also decorated with 24 windows, each symbolizing a day of the Christmas Advent calendar.
In addition to its historical and cultural value, the Liebburg represents the pride and identity of Lienz and its inhabitants. For everyone who comes to Lienz, the castle is a must-see as it reflects the heritage, tenacity and beauty of the city.
Gola Galizia
At the foot of the Lienz Dolomites, Gola Galizia is an adventure park located in a natural canyon. Families, environmentalists and adrenaline seekers find it a popular destination as it offers a range of events to enjoy. Here are some features of Gola Galizia that you should know:
- Water Trail and Water Playground: Following the Galitzenbach Creek, this trail offers a water trail and water play area where one can see and experience the force of the water as it flows over rapids and rocks. Interactive stations and information panels describing the role of water in society and the natural world will also be present throughout the route. Children can splash, play and learn with water in a water play area located at the end of the boardwalk.
- Via Ferrata: This climbing trail, the Via Ferrata, takes you to the top of the gorge where you can admire the views of the Lienz Dolomites and the Drava Valley. Since the trail offers varying degrees of difficulty and safety equipment, both novice and experienced users will find it suitable. The park entrance also allows you to rent the necessary tools.
- Restaurant and Snack Bar: After visiting the gorge, you can relax and recharge your batteries in a restaurant and snack bar. Among the many meals and drinks you can choose from are Tyrolean specialties, pizza, ice cream and coffee. The restaurant also includes a play area and a patio where you can enjoy the scenery and the sun.
- Location and Opening Hours: Gola Galizia is located on the Drava cycle path, about 4 kilometers north of Lienz. You can get there by public transport, by bike or by car. Depending on the season, the park is open from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. or 6:00 p.m. from mid-April to the end of October. The activity and age category determine the entry price; it varies from five to thirteen euros per person.
In Lienz, Gola Galizia is a special and interesting place where one can enjoy the natural beauty and adventure of the surroundings.
Kosakenfriedhof
In Lienz in the Peggetz region of Austria, the Kosakenfriedhof is a memorial site and cemetery. In May 1945, some 40,000 Cossacks from the Don and Caucasus regions, linked to Nazi Germany and fighting resistance forces in the Balkans during World War II, left Yugoslavia for East Tyrol, seeking safety and asylum. Tragic end for these people But British troops, under the Yalta agreements requiring the return of all Soviet citizens, disarmed them and forcibly handed them over to the Soviet Union. This betrayal led many of them to murder or deportation to Siberia. A few of them died during the move or committed suicide. Few could hide or flee.
About three hundred Cossacks who perished in a camp on the north bank of the Drava River, near Lienz, before or during the deportation, are buried in the cemetery. Initially laid in 1945, the tombs were later adorned with a fence, marble crosses, an obelisk bearing an Orthodox cross and a crown of thorns. “The righteous will be remembered forever” (Psalm 112:6) says a psalm passage over the cemetery gate. On either side of the obelisk are also two icons of Mary and Christ kept in display cases. In 2015, a modest wooden Orthodox chapel was added to the property.
In addition to remembering the human suffering and injustices committed after the war, the cemetery has historical and cultural value. Every year on the first weekend in June, residents, a group of veterans and a memorial association gather at the cemetery to honor the legacy of the Cossacks. The Austrian Black Cross, a charity that cares for war graves, also helps preserve the cemetery.
For those who are fascinated by the history and heritage of this Alpine region, the Kosakenfriedhof is among the attractions and sites that make Lienz an interesting place.
Das Gschlosstal
About 4 kilometers north of Lienz, the valley and nature park Das Gschlosstal are located in the Lienz Dolomites. It is a charming and varied place where you can savor the culture, landscapes and animals of East Tyrol. Das Gschlosstal features several sites and monuments, including these:
- Innergschloess: At the bottom of the valley, a small community known as Innergschloess is home to the remarkable Venediger Group, a mountain range with glaciers and peaks exceeding 3,000 meters. Another important place with historical roots in the 17th century is the Holy Cross Chapel.
- Venedigerweg: From the Innergschloess to the Matreier Tauernhaus, mountain hut and starting point for many excursions in the Hohe Tauern National Park, the Venedigerweg is a hiking trail. The path runs along the mountain pastures, bridges and waterfalls of the Gschloessbach river. The one-way walk takes approximately two hours.
- Gschloessklamm: Carved into the limestone rocks of the Lienz Dolomites, Gschloessklamm is a narrow and astonishing gorge. As you admire the rock formations and blue water below, you can cross the gorge on a wooden footbridge. There is an entrance fee and the gorge is open from May to October.
- Galitzenklamm: Another gorge at the entrance to the valley is the Galitzenklamm, where one can enjoy the power and splendor of the water. It has a water trail, a water play area and a via ferrata, a climbing path with ladders and fixed wires. The Lienz Dolomites also enjoy the view from the café and snack bar.
- Schloss Weißenstein: Built by the Counts of Wolkenstein-Rodenegg, who also owned the Liebburg in Lienz, Castle Weißenstein is a 16th century castle. Although you can view it from the outside and appreciate its Renaissance beauty and rocky position, today it is privately owned.
Among the sites and attractions that make Lienz a fantastic place for those who love nature or culture is Das Gschlosstal. This beautiful valley has something to suit your tastes and activities, whether you are looking for sightseeing, hiking or climbing.
Kosaken Museum
Around 40,000 Cossacks, a Russian-Slavic ethnic group fighting as allies of Nazi Germany in the Balkans during World War II, were forcibly repatriated to the Soviet Union by British troops, facing death or deportation for traitors. The private museum, the Kosaken Museum in Lienz, tells the story of this sad event that occurred in Lienz in June 1945. In addition to their fate and legacy, the museum exhibits historical documents, images, artifacts and testimonies concerning the Cossacks and their culture. In addition, the museum serves as a gathering place and documentation center for descendants of the Cossacks who survived or escaped deportation.
Keen to honor the heritage and identity of his people, Cossack historian and activist Dr. Georg Kobro opened the museum in 2014. Located on the main square of Lienz, close to Liebburg Castle, the museum is housed in a historic structure. It is made up of two rooms: one dedicated to Cossack history and culture and the other to the Cossack tragedy of Lienz. The museum plans commemorative events and cultural activities in addition to a quarterly publication called “Cossack Messenger.”
One of the attractions and sites that make Lienz an interesting place for tourists eager for the past and heritage of this Alpine region is the Kosaken Museum in Lienz. This site of memory, learning and communication allows us to better understand the Cossacks and their role in European history.
Franziskanerkirche
Comprising the Franciscan convent in downtown Lienz, the Franziskanerkirche is a Gothic church. Originally established as a Carmelite monastery in 1349 by the Counts of Görz, the church and monastery were damaged by fire in 1609 and 1723 and rebuilt with the addition of the onion-shaped towers that define today the facade. The Counts of Görz transferred the Carmelites to the Franciscans following the suppression of the Carmelites by Emperor Joseph II. Bishop Paulus Rusch founded the parish church of St. Marien in 1948; the church is dedicated to the Assumption of Mary.
Simple in appearance, the church has a semi-circular portal and a mosaic of the Mother of God by Jos Pirkner dating from 1979 on the west facade. Separated by wall pillars with three-quarter columns and polygonal capitals, the interior has a single nave with five bays. The choir has a star vault; the nave has a net vault. On granite columns, the west gallery has three semicircular arches and a star vault. The north wall has an access door to the cloister and a wooden gallery. With a five-sided apse, the choir faces slightly to the right. Around 1900, the Tiroler Glasmalerei produced stained glass for windows.
The church presents a rich and varied artistic ornamentation, belonging to several eras and styles. A modern work by Jos Pirkner from 1976, the high altar is a winged Gothic altar with copper reliefs. Father Johann Maria Reiter designed the pulpit that Johann Ortner built in 1876 or 1877 with reliefs of Franciscan saints by Karl Fuetsch. Alois Fuetsch designed the organ in 1929 with a four-part neo-Gothic case. In addition to 15th-century Gothic frescoes in the choir and nave, the church houses a baroque wooden nativity scene by Christoph Brandstätter from the second half of the 18th century.
For those fascinated by the culture and heritage of this Alpine region, the Franziskanerkirche is among the attractions and sites that make Lienz a pleasant and historic place. Here is a center of religion, art and history where you can appreciate Gothic architecture and the many artistic manifestations of the past and today.
Alter Friedhof Lienz
Next to St. Andra’s Church, Friedhof Lienz is the old Lienz cemetery. In addition to the artistic and architectural elements of the cemetery, this old and charming place houses the tombs of many personalities of the city and the region. Here are some of the highlights of Alter Friedhof Lienz for your knowledge:
Bezirkskriegerdenkmal: Built on the grounds of the parish church, the towns of the Lienz valley and the city of Lienz erected a war monument known as the Bezirkskriegerdenkmal in 1924/25. It honors the Tyrolean freedom warriors of 1809 as well as the men who lost their lives during the First World War. Famous Austrian architect Clemens Holzmeister designed the memorial, which houses the only frescoes by Tyrolean painter Albin Egger-Lienz. Besides the resurrection of Christ, the frescoes show events from the life and death of soldiers and peasants. In addition to a chapel including a cross and a crown of thorns, the memorial includes a crypt bearing the names of the dead.
Egger-Lienz-Gedenkstätte: Albin Egger-Lienz died in 1926 in Sainte-Justine near Bolzano; he was born in Lienz in 1868. Considered one of the most important Austrian painters of the 20th century, he was known for his expressionist technique and his subjects of war, death and country life. The memorial site includes a bronze bust of Wilhelm Gösser, a plaque with his biography and a collection of some of his works and personal items. Egger-Lienz lived and worked for some time in the courtyard of Liebburg Castle.
Graves of notable people: Many personalities born, lived or died in Lienz or the surrounding area are buried in the cemetery. Among these, here are a few:
- Franz von Defregger (1835-1921): Franz von Defregger (1835-1921), painter and professor at the Academy of Fine Arts in Munich, was employed by the Tyrolean rebellion of 1809. He was renowned for his realistic and passionate depiction of Tyrolean history and culture .
- Josef Friedrich Perkonig (1890-1959): The writer and professor Josef Friedrich Perkonig (1890-1959) wrote studies on the history and culture of East Tyrol and Carinthia as well as novels and poetry. In addition, he chaired the Austrian PEN Club and belonged to the Austrian Senate of Arts.
- Hans Gasser (1817-1868): Hans Gasser (1817-1868) was a sculptor and professor at the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna. He produced a large body of religious and secular art including monuments, busts, reliefs and sculptures. Additionally, he was the father of a fellow Lienz-based sculptor, Viktor Gasser.
- Johann Stüdl (1843-1921): Johann Stül (1843-1921), founder of the German and Austrian Alpine Club and the Munich Alpine Museum, was a merchant and mountaineer. He was also a pioneer in mountaineering in the Eastern Alps, notably with the Venediger Group and the Glockner Group.
For those who are fascinated by the culture and heritage of this Alpine region, Alter Friedhof Lienz is among the attractions and sites that make Lienz a pleasant and historic place. Here is a place of serenity, beauty and history where you can honor the people who helped define the city and region and admire the architecture and artwork of the church and cemetery.
Mariensäule Lienz
Located on Johannesplatz, the square in front of St. Andrew’s Church in Lienz, Mariensäule is a column bearing a monument of the Virgin Mary. Built in 1798 in homage to Marie, patroness of Lienz, it was created following a terrible fire which devastated most of the city. Built in marble, the column presents on its base four bronze reliefs illustrating the events in Mary’s life: the Annunciation, the Visitation, the Nativity and the Assumption. Also made of bronze, the statue of Mary features a scepter and a golden crown. Four angels surround him bearing the marks of his virtues: lily, mirror, tower and star.
Besides a wonderful example of Baroque art and architecture, the column represents the faith and history of the city and region. Additionally, a place of prayer and celebration, residents of Lienz gather for religious and festive events, including the annual parade of Saint Florian, patron saint of firefighters, on May 4. At night, the column is also illuminated, creating a charming and romantic scene in the area.
For those fascinated by the history and culture of this Alpine region, Mariensäule is among the attractions and sites that make Lienz such a pleasant and ancient place.
Martin-Luther-Kirche
The Protestant parish church of Lienz, a town in the Austrian Alps, is Martin-Luther-Kirche. Built between 1960 and 1962, it replaced a wooden church serving the growing evangelical population since its destruction in 1947. Located near the Church of St. Andra and the old cemetery, on the north bank of the Drava River , the church is
Made of stone and brick, the church is a basic, contemporary construction with a flat roof and a tower on the northeast corner. Local artist Jos Pirkner created a mosaic of the Mother of God on the facade with a round-arched portal. The interior is composed of a barrel-vaulted nave and a semi-circular apse. Stained glass windows from the Tiroler Glasmalerei and wall piers with columns and capitals define the nave. The Gothic winged altar by Jos Pirkner, decorated with copper reliefs depicting events from the life of Christ, is located in the apse. In addition to a wooden nativity scene, an organ, a pulpit and 15th-century Gothic wall paintings, the church has
In addition to a place of worship, art and culture, the church represents the faith and history of the evangelical community in Lienz and its surroundings. Designed by local architect Lois Untersteggaber, the church houses the only frescoes by the famous Tyrolean painter Albin Egger-Lienz. The church also hosted the ministry of the former bishop of the Evangelical Church of Austria, Herwig Sturm. The church welcomes visitors and offers concerts and guided tours.
For those who are fascinated by the culture and heritage of this Alpine region, Martin-Luther-Kirche is one of the attractions and sites that make Lienz a charming and historic place. It is a place of beauty, elegance and hope where one can appreciate contemporary architecture as well as the many artistic manifestations of the past and present.
