History Of Mühlbach am Hochkönig
The area including Mühlbach am Hochkönig has a rich historical record dating back to primordial periods. Archaeological finds point to Roman and Celtic cities existing in the area. The Romans built a planned path through the settlement that connected Salzburg to the south. Translated as “mill stream”, Mühlbach comes from the watermills that dot the river. Translated as “great king”, Hochkönig is the name used to describe the majestic peak that commands the scene.
During the Middle Ages, Mühlbach am Hochkönig served in the Archbishopric of Salzburg. Documented around 1350, it was identified as a market town including the Church of Saint Sebastian and a fortress. Perched on a hill, the fortress was destroyed by fire in 1526 and was never rebuilt. Originally a refuge approved by Archbishop Leonhard von Keutschach in 1519, St. Sebastian’s Church underwent Baroque restorations in 1749 and became a Gothic-style building in 1637. An important site is now the still-existing church. The community built a pioneering single-class primary school in 1678, marking one of the first educational institutions in the area.
From the 16th century until 1977, copper mining greatly affected the economy of Mühlbach am Hochkönig. Processing copper resources from the surrounding mountains helped the community flourish and grow culturally. Still, the sector has worsened social discontent and harmed the environment. The mining community, made up mostly of people from Tyrol and Carinthia, developed a distinct culture in the face of regular mortality and challenging working conditions. A publicly accessible museum and mine help pay homage to the mining past. The museum displays relics and records related to the industry, including contracts, currency, machines and tools. The mine’s Arthurstollen tunnel offers guided tours that showcase a miner’s life and underground activities.
Mühlbach am Hochkönig entered the 20th century and became a popular tourist destination, especially for summer hiking and winter sports. Consisting of 120 km of slopes and 32 ski lifts, the municipality is a vital part of the Hochkönig ski resort. It also offers useful ski shuttle links to Maria Alm and Dienten, the neighboring villages. Every year the village has many celebrations such as the Hochkönig Trophy, the Hochkönig Ski and Wine Festival and the Hochkönig Kräuterfest. As the area gains a reputation as a Mountain Animal Village, several animal farms and zoos add to its charm. Families will find activities ranging from Toni’s Alpine Meadow Playground to Ant Theme Path, Flying Fox Park and Pinzgau Archery School to enhance their experience. Mühlbach am Hochkönig has successfully combined modern tourism with its historical legacy to offer a diverse range of events and activities open all year round.
