Wattens
Wattens is a charming town with a population of approximately 7,881 people as of 2018. It is best known as the headquarters of the Swarovski crystal glass company, which was founded here by Daniel Swarovski in 1895. Wattens has a rich history, culture, and economy, as well as numerous tourist attractions and activities.
Wattens is located in the state of Tyrol in western Austria. It is located in the Innsbruck-Land District and is part of the Hall in Tirol judicial district. Wattens is located at an elevation of 564 meters above sea level and has a land area of 10.84 kilometers. The town is located in the Lower Inn Valley, between the mountain ranges of the Karwendel and the Tux Alps. The Inn River runs through town, separating the northern and southern parts of Wattens.The Wattental side valley branches off from the main valley, leading to the Wattentaler Lizum head, the town’s highest point at 2,338 meters above sea level.
Wattens has four districts: Wattens, Fritzens, Kolsassberg, and Wattenberg. The main square and the St. Lawrence Church are located on the southern bank of the Inn River in the town center. The center also houses the town hall, the museum, and the typewriter museum. The Swarovski Crystal Worlds, the town’s most famous attraction, is about 2 kilometers from the center on the northern bank of the river. The Wattental side valley, which leads to the Wattentaler Lizum head in the Tux Alps range, is a popular hiking and nature destination.
Wattens has a long and illustrious history that dates back to the La Tène era. Wattens was first mentioned in a deed in 930 as Vuattanes, when the area was part of the German stem duchy of Bavaria.The region was held by the Counts of Tyrol from the 12th century until 1363, when it was acquired by the Austrian House of Habsburg.The first paper mill in Austrian lands was established in Wattens in 1559. When Daniel Swarovski, a glass cutter from Bohemia, settled here in 1895 to begin the production of crystal jewelry, the local economy was further boosted. Swarovski grew to become the world’s largest producer of cut crystal, and Wattens was transformed into a global center of innovation and design.
Wattens is an Austrian town with a variety of attractions and activities for visitors. Swarovski Crystal Worlds, a museum and theme park dedicated to the history and art of crystal, is one of Wattens’ main attractions. The museum contains 17 wonder chambers designed by various artists, as well as a collection of crystals and works by notable artists. Attractions at the theme park include a crystal cloud, a labyrinth, and a carousel.
Aside from the Swarovski Crystal Worlds, Wattens has several museums and galleries that highlight the town’s history, culture, and creativity. The Swarovski Museum, the paper mill, and the Wattens excavations are all on display at the Museum Wattens, while the Typewriter Museum houses a collection of over 1,000 typewriters. The Sagenpark is a park and gallery where sculptures and paintings inspired by local legends and myths are displayed.
Wattens is also known for its cultural landmarks, such as the St. Lawrence Church, which is built in Gothic and Baroque styles and houses several artworks. Famous people, including Daniel Swarovski, are buried in the Wattens Cemetery. Wattens Castle is a historic castle that served as a residence for the Counts of Tyrol. It is not open to the public.
Wattens has a thriving economy with a strong emphasis on industry, tourism, and services. It is home to well-known companies such as Swarovski, the world’s largest producer of cut crystal, and Wattenspapier, the world’s leading manufacturer of rolling paper. Plansee, a global leader in refractory metals, has a production facility in Wattens as well.
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Geography Of Wattens
Wattens is a town in western Austria that is part of the Hall in Tirol judicial district and is located in the Innsbruck-Land District. It is located in the Lower Inn Valley, between the mountain ranges of the Karwendel and Tux Alps. The Inn River, which runs through its northern and southern parts, divides the town. The Wattental side valley divides the main valley and leads to the Wattentaler Lizum head, the town’s highest point at 2,338 meters.
Wattens is one of Tyrol’s smallest towns, with a land area of 10.84 kilometers. It is divided into four districts: Wattens, Fritzens, Kolsassberg, and Wattenberg. Wattens is the most populous and largest, encompassing the town center and industrial zone. Fritzens is located on the northern bank of the Inn River, while Kolsassberg is a mountain village on the Tux Alps’ southern slopes.
The town’s landscape is diverse, with a contrast between valley and mountains, forests, meadows, and fields. Natural attractions include the Wattentaler Lizum, a high alpine valley with a glacial lake and ski resort, the Wattenberg Waterfall, a 40 m high waterfall in the Wattenberg district, and the Sagenpark, a park and gallery with sculptures and paintings inspired by local legends and myths.
Weather & Climate In Wattens
Wattens has a mild summer climate and cold winters, influenced by the Inn River. The town experiences four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. The town’s location in the Lower Inn Valley, surrounded by the Karwendel and Tux Alps mountain ranges, greatly influences the changing seasons. Each season has its own unique characteristics, including variations in temperature, precipitation, and sunshine.
Spring is characterized by growth and renewal, with temperatures increasing gradually from 5°C to 14°C and precipitation increasing from 50 mm to 100 mm. Summer is characterized by warm temperatures and frequent rainfall, with temperatures reaching their peak in July at 19°C and 120 mm of precipitation. The season also features thunderstorms and rainbows.
Autumn is the warmest season, with temperatures decreasing from 15°C to 6°C and precipitation decreasing from 80 mm to 60 mm. The beauty of autumn lies in its vibrant hues and the gradual transition from warm to cool. Winter is the coldest and driest season, with temperatures dropping to -1°C in January and snow and frost in December. Wattens experiences a moderate amount of precipitation.
Demographics Of Wattens
Wattens, a town in Austria, has a population of 7,881 as of 2018, with a population density of about 730 per km. The population structure is well balanced, with a slightly higher proportion of females compared to males. Wattens has a gender ratio of 100.9 females per 100 males, slightly above the national average of 98.9. The age distribution of Wattens is well-balanced, with a median age of 41.5 years, slightly lower than the national average of 42.8 years for Austria.
The population pyramid of Wattens displays a slightly narrower base and wider top, suggesting a lower fertility rate and longer life expectancy. The population distribution is uneven, with most of the population concentrated in the town center and industrial zone, and the rest scattered in rural and mountainous areas. The town is divided into four districts: Wattens, Fritzens, Kolsassberg, and Wattenberg.
The population distribution of Wattens reflects the historical and economic development of the town, as well as the geographical and climatic factors that influence settlement patterns. The town center and industrial zone are the most attractive and accessible areas, while rural and mountainous areas are more isolated and challenging for living.
Districts & Neighborhoods in Wattens
Wattens has four districts: Wattens, Fritzens, Kolsassberg, and Wattenberg. Wattens encompasses the town center and the bustling industrial zone, making it the largest and most populous district of the town. Wattens is situated on the picturesque southern bank of the Inn River, boasting a charming area spanning 5.4 km.Wattens has a population of 5,635 as of 2018, with a population density of 1,043 per km.
Fritzens is located on the northern bank of the Inn River, directly across from the town center. It has a population of 1,066 people and a land area of 1 km2. It is a rural and agricultural district with stunning natural scenery such as the Wattenberg Waterfall and Fritzens Gorge. Kolsassberg is a mountain village on the Tux Alps’ southern slopes, above Wattens. It has a population of 766 people and a land area of 16 km2.
Wattens has several neighborhoods, each with its own name, identity, and atmosphere. The Town Center is the oldest and most historic part of the town, with a main square, shops, cafes, restaurants, pubs, parks, and playgrounds. The Industrial Zone is the most modern and innovative part of the town, featuring a giant water-spouting head guarding the entrance to the museum.
Culture and Local Tradition of Wattens
Wattens is a town with a vibrant and varied culture, deeply rooted in its fascinating history, unique geography, thriving economy, and close-knit society. The town is known for its diverse language landscape, with German being the official and most commonly spoken language. The local variation of the Austro-Bavarian dialect adds a distinct flavor to the language, reflecting the town’s historical connections with Bavaria and Tyrol.
Wattens is also home to a diverse population of foreign-born and foreign-nationality residents, resulting in a multitude of languages being spoken in the town. Turkish, Croatian, Serbian, Bosnian, English, Italian, and Polish are just a few examples of the languages represented in Wattens. This linguistic diversity is a testament to the town’s commitment to openness and integration, as well as its global outlook.
Religion plays a significant role in Wattens, with the majority of its residents being Roman Catholic. The town’s rich Catholic heritage is evident in its architecture, art, and festivals. However, Wattens also embraces other Christian denominations such as Protestantism, Orthodoxy, and Mormonism, as well as other religions like Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism.
Economy Of Wattens
Wattens boasts a thriving and varied economy, thanks to its rich history, strategic location, strong industrial sector, and commitment to innovation. The industry sector is the backbone of the town’s economy, contributing significantly to its gross value added and employment. It is mainly focused on crystal, paper, and metal production. Additional sectors encompass electronics, engineering, and biotechnology.
The services sector is a significant and rapidly expanding part of the town’s economy, contributing 35% to its gross value added and employing 45% of its workforce. The economy of this place is primarily focused on tourism, trade, and business services. Additionally, it offers various other services like health, education, and culture. The sector is known for its wide range of offerings, innovative approaches, adaptability.
The town’s economy is thriving, boasting a strong level of income, productivity, and competitiveness. The town’s GDP per capita in 2019 was 67,000 euros, surpassing both the national and regional averages. The town’s labor productivity was 133,000 euros, surpassing both the national and regional averages. In 2019, the town had an export intensity of about 70%, which was higher than both the national and regional averages.
History Of Wattens
The history of human settlement in Wattens dates back to the La Tène era, approximately in the 5th century BC, when the area was inhabited by the Rhaetians, a Celtic people.The name Wattens was first recorded as Vuattanes in a 930 document, when the region was under the rule of the German stem duchy of Bavaria. The name is derived from the Celtic word vadetis, which means “ford”.
The Counts of Tyrol controlled Wattens since the 12th century and was incorporated into the Habsburg Monarchy in 1363. The town prospered as a market town, capitalizing on its advantageous position and abundant resources. In 1559, a paper mill was established, marking the beginning of paper production in Austria. The town proudly displays its coat of arms featuring a globus cruciger.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, Wattens experienced numerous wars and conflicts, including the Thirty Years’ War, the War of the Spanish Succession, and the Napoleonic Wars. The town played a significant role in the Tyrolean Rebellion of 1809, led by Andreas Hofer. During the 19th century, Wattens underwent economic and social recovery.
Best Time To Visit Wattens
Wattens is a town that offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors throughout the year. The town experiences mild and enjoyable weather with four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Each season has its own unique characteristics and benefits for tourists. Spring in Wattens is a lovely and refreshing season, with nature awakening and temperatures rising. It is a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking, as well as sightseeing.
Summer in Wattens is characterized by heat and activity. Nature is in full bloom, and the town hosts numerous events and festivals. Visitors can enjoy activities like swimming, boating, and camping. However, summer can be hot and crowded, so it is advisable to book ahead and stay hydrated. Autumn in Wattens is a colorful and cozy season, with leaves changing colors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Winter in Wattens is cold and snowy, creating a magical and cheerful atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy activities like skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating. However, winter can be harsh and isolated, so it is important to bring warm clothing and snow gear, and to be cautious during storms and avalanches.
Transportation In Wattens
Wattens is a town located in Austria and is accessible by various modes of transportation. For those traveling by train, the Fritzens-Wattens train station is the main stop along the Lower Inn Valley Railway, connecting Innsbruck, Munich, and Kufstein. Regional trains operated by Austrian Railways (ÖBB) run every 30 minutes in both directions, with the journey from Innsbruck to Wattens taking approximately 15 minutes.
Traveling by bus is another option, with the Wattens Hauptplatz bus terminal serving as the main hub. Regional buses operated by Verkehrsverbund Tirol (VVT) connect Wattens to Innsbruck and other nearby towns and villages. FlixBus also operates long-distance buses that connect Wattens with Vienna and other major cities in Austria and Europe.
Wattens is conveniently located near the A12 highway, which connects Innsbruck to Munich and Kufstein via the European route E60. Wattens West is the motorway exit for Wattens and is located approximately 3 kilometers west of the town center.The distance between Innsbruck and Wattens is approximately 20 kilometers. The distance between Munich and Wattens is approximately 150 kilometers.
Attractions & Landmarks In Wattens
Wattens, is a town known for its main attraction, Swarovski Crystal Worlds. This museum features 17 chambers of wonder that showcase the beauty of crystal, light, and sound. Visitors can explore the life and work of Daniel Swarovski. The theme park within Swarovski Crystal Worlds offers various attractions such as a crystal cloud, a labyrinth, a play tower, a carousel, and a garden.
Aside from Swarovski Crystal Worlds, Wattens offers other interesting attractions. The Museum Wattens provides insights into the history and culture of the town and its surrounding area. It features exhibits and collections related to the paper mill, typewriters, crystals, folklore, and art. The museum also hosts events and activities like guided tours, workshops, lectures, and concerts.
Typewriter enthusiasts will find the Typewriter Museum fascinating, as it houses a remarkable collection of over 1,000 typewriters dating from the 19th century to the present day. This museum showcases the evolution and impact of typewriters on communication, literature, and society. Rare and unique typewriters, including the first electric typewriter and the first portable typewriter, are on display.
Things To Do In Wattens
Wattens, located in Tyrol, offers a wide range of activities for both winter and summer seasons. In winter, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at the Glungezer ski resort, which caters to all skill levels. The resort features six ski lifts, 23 km of pistes, a toboggan run, and winter walking trails. Ice-skating and curling are also popular activities, with artificial ice rinks available in Wattens, Mils, and Hall.
In summer, Wattens offers opportunities for hiking and biking through the picturesque Karwendel mountains and Tux Alpine foothills. Guided tours and bike rental services are available for those who prefer a more structured experience. Visitors can also cool off in the outdoor pools in Wattens, Mils, and Hall, or visit the lakes of Achensee and Lansersee for swimming, boating, sailing, or fishing.
In addition to the outdoor activities, Wattens boasts a rich cultural scene. Visitors can explore museums such as the Swarovski Crystal Worlds, Museum Wattens, Typewriter Museum, Stadtmuseum Hall, Mining Museum, and Burg Hasegg fortress & Hall Mint Museum. There are also several attractions to visit, including the Sagenpark, Marienkirche, Wattens Castle, Wattenberg Waterfall.
Food & Drinks In Wattens
Wattens is a charming market town that offers a delightful culinary experience for both visitors and locals. Influenced by a diverse range of regional and international cuisines, including Tyrolean, Austrian, Italian, and German, the culinary heritage of Wattens is incredibly diverse.
Traditional dishes in Wattens capture the rich history and vibrant culture of the town and Tyrol. These dishes are carefully crafted using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Some of the most popular traditional dishes in Wattens include Speckknödel, which are dumplings made with bread, eggs, milk, and smoked and cured ham, and Kaiserschmarrn, a dessert made with a thick and fluffy pancake torn into pieces and sprinkled with powdered sugar.
In addition to traditional cuisine, Wattens also offers a range of modern cuisine options that showcase the ingenuity and artistry of local chefs. These dishes draw inspiration from worldwide culinary trends and are served in some of the most popular and acclaimed restaurants in Wattens. Daniels Kristallwelten, located in the Swarovski Crystal Worlds, offers a fusion of international and regional cuisine.
Popular Places In Wattens
Typewriter Museum
Wattens Museum
St. Lawrence’s Church
