Villach Main Square

The Main Square is one of the most attractive and interesting places in Villach, where you can discover the history, the culture, and the lifestyle of this charming city.

The History of the Main Square

The Main Square dates back to the 12th century, when Villach was a flourishing trade center and a strategic location on the route between Venice and Vienna. The square was originally a market place, where merchants and craftsmen sold their goods and services. The square has a rectangular shape, with a one-to-eight area ratio, and slightly curved building lines. The square is enclosed by a wall, which gives it a sense of intimacy and security. The wall is interrupted by short lanes, some of which have candle arches, such as Ankershofengasse and Karlgasse. These lanes connect the square with the rest of the old town and the river Drau.

The Main Square has witnessed many historical events and changes over the centuries. It was the site of fires, wars, plagues, and celebrations. It was also the place where important figures of Villach’s history lived and worked, such as the doctor and philosopher Paracelsus, who resided in a house on the west side of the square, and the bacteriologist Anton Ghon, who was born in another house on the same side. These houses are marked by plaques that commemorate their former inhabitants.

The Highlights of the Main Square

The Main Square is not only a place of history, but also a place of beauty and culture. The square is adorned with several architectural and artistic landmarks that reflect the diverse influences and styles that shaped Villach over the years. Here are some of the highlights of the Main Square that you should not miss:

The Parish Church (Stadtpfarrkirche): This is the most prominent and impressive building on the Main Square, located at its southern end. The church was built in the 14th century in the Gothic style, and later renovated in the Baroque style in the 18th century. The church has a tall spire that dominates the skyline of Villach, and a richly decorated interior that features frescoes, altars, statues, and organs. The church is also home to the famous Villach Madonna, a wooden sculpture of the Virgin Mary that dates back to the 15th century and is revered by the locals.
The Trinity Column (Dreifaltigkeitssäule): This is a monumental column that stands in the center of the Main Square, erected in 1739 to thank God for sparing Villach from the plague. The column is made of marble and bronze, and depicts the Holy Trinity on top, surrounded by angels and saints. The column is a symbol of Villach’s faith and gratitude, and a masterpiece of Baroque art.
The Old Post Office (Alte Post): This is a historic building on the east side of the Main Square, built in the 16th century as a residence for the noble family of Dietrichstein. The building later served as a post office, a hotel, and a museum. The building has a Renaissance facade, with arcades, columns, and reliefs. The building also has a courtyard, where you can find a fountain and a statue of the Roman god Mercury, the patron of commerce and travelers.
The Paracelsus Court (Paracelsushof): This is another historic building on the east side of the Main Square, built in the 16th century as a residence for the doctor and philosopher Paracelsus. The building has a Gothic facade, with a portal and a coat of arms. The building also has a courtyard, where you can see a bust of Paracelsus and a plaque that honors his achievements.

The Activities of the Main Square

The Main Square is not only a place to admire, but also a place to enjoy. The square is a lively and vibrant spot, where you can find a variety of shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars. The square is a great place to shop for local products, such as leather goods, ceramics, jewelry, and souvenirs. You can also find some of the top brands in fashion, such as Zara, H&M, and Mango. The square is also a great place to relax and have a bite or a drink, while watching the people and the street performers. You can choose from a range of cafes and restaurants, some of which have outdoor seating, where you can enjoy the views and the atmosphere of the square. Some of the most popular places to eat and drink on the Main Square are:

Cafe Konditorei Bernold: This is a traditional cafe and pastry shop, where you can taste some of the best cakes and desserts in Villach, such as the Sachertorte, the Apfelstrudel, and the Esterhazytorte. The cafe also serves coffee, tea, and hot chocolate, as well as sandwiches and salads.
Gasthof Goldenes Lamm: This is a cozy and rustic restaurant, where you can savor some of the typical dishes of Carinthian cuisine, such as the Kasnudeln, the Kärntner Nudel, and the Reindling. The restaurant also offers a variety of meat, fish, and vegetarian options, as well as soups, salads, and desserts. The restaurant also has a beer garden, where you can enjoy a cold pint of Villacher Bier, the local brew.
Pizzeria Capri: This is a popular and casual pizzeria, where you can order a delicious and authentic pizza, made with fresh ingredients and baked in a wood-fired oven. The pizzeria also serves pasta, salads, and desserts, as well as soft drinks, wine, and beer.

The Main Square is also the venue for many cultural and festive events throughout the year, such as the Villach Carnival, the Villach Fair, the Villach Christmas Market, and the Villach New Year’s Eve Party. These events attract thousands of visitors and locals, who come to enjoy the music, the food, the games, and the fireworks. The Main Square is always a place of fun and excitement, where you can experience the spirit and the traditions of Villach.

Villach, Austria