Attractions & Landmarks In Wattens
Wattens main attraction is Swarovski Crystal Worlds, featuring 17 chambers of wonder inspired by crystal, light, and sound. The museum showcases the life and work of Daniel Swarovski and a large collection of crystals, including works by notable artists like Brian Eno and Niki de Saint Phalle. The theme park offers attractions such as a crystal cloud, a labyrinth, a play tower, a carousel, and a garden.
In addition to Swarovski Crystal Worlds, the town of Wattens in Austria offers several other attractions. The Museum Wattens is a local museum that provides insights into the history and culture of Wattens and its surrounding area. It features exhibits and collections related to the paper mill, typewriters, crystals, folklore, and art. The museum also hosts various events and activities, including guided tours, workshops, lectures, and concerts.
For typewriter enthusiasts, the Typewriter Museum is a must-visit. It houses a remarkable collection of over 1,000 typewriters dating from the 19th century to the present day. The museum showcases the evolution and impact of typewriters on communication, literature, and society. Rare and unique typewriters, such as the first electric typewriter, the first portable typewriter, and the first typewriter with a memory, are also on display.
Sagenpark is a park and gallery that showcases sculptures and paintings inspired by local legends and myths of Wattens and its surrounding area. Visitors can explore various characters and stories, including dragons, witches, giants, and mermaids. The park also offers a playground, picnic area, and a café, providing a perfect setting for relaxation and enjoyment.
Marienkirche – Neue Pfarrkirche is the main church and a prominent landmark in Wattens. Built in the 18th century, it features a Gothic nave, a Baroque tower, and a Rococo interior. The church houses various artworks and relics, including an altarpiece, an organ, stained glass windows, and a Madonna statue.
Wattens Castle, constructed in the 13th century, served as the residence of the Counts of Tyrol and later as a hunting lodge for the Habsburgs. With its medieval style, complete with a moat, drawbridge, and tower, the castle now operates as a hotel and restaurant. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the town and the valley from the castle.
Swarovski Crystal Worlds
The Swarovski Crystal Worlds is a popular tourist destination in Austria, drawing in a large number of visitors. This attraction was created by the Austrian artist André Heller for the crystal glass manufacturer Swarovski. It includes a park, art museum, retail area, and restaurant. The attraction was established in 1995, to commemorate the centenary anniversary of the Swarovski company, and has undergone multiple expansions and renovations since its inception.
The attraction is situated approximately 2 km east of the town center and is easily accessible by bus, taxi, or by walking. The attraction operates throughout the year, with hours from 9 am to 7 pm, excluding Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.The admission fee for adults is 26 euros, while students and seniors can enter for 19 euros. Children under 15 can enjoy free admission.
The attraction showcases a massive water-spouting head known as the Giant, standing proudly at the entrance to the Crystal Worlds. The interior houses 17 captivating chambers, each crafted by different artists and influenced by the enchanting concepts of crystal, light, and sound. The chambers showcase the fascinating life and achievements of Daniel Swarovski, the visionary behind the renowned Swarovski company. Within these chambers, you will also find an extensive collection of exquisite crystals, featuring stunning creations by acclaimed artists such as Brian Eno and Niki de Saint Phalle.The attraction also provides a range of features, including a crystal cloud, a labyrinth, a play tower, a carousel, and a garden.
This attraction beautifully presents the rich history, captivating artistry, and enchanting allure of crystal. It pays homage to the Swarovski company, a trailblazer and prominent figure in the global crystal industry.Visitors can gain inspiration and knowledge from the attraction, as they have the opportunity to delve into the world of crystal production and design through workshops and tours.
Wattens Museum
The Museum Wattens holds the distinction of being the town’s primary museum and one of the most ancient museums in Tyrol. The museum showcases the rich history, vibrant culture, and thriving economy of Wattens and its surrounding area. The museum was founded in 1903 by the Wattens Historical Society and has been located in the former town hall since 1974.
The museum is conveniently situated in the heart of the town, just a stone’s throw away from the bustling main square. The museum’s operating hours are from Tuesday to Sunday, with morning hours from 10 am to 12 pm and afternoon hours from 2 pm to 5 pm. Please note that the museum is closed on public holidays.Adults are required to pay an admission fee of 5 euros, while students and seniors can enter for a reduced fee of 3 euros. Children under 15 can enjoy free entry.
The museum boasts four permanent exhibitions that delve into different aspects of Wattens’ rich history. The first exhibition focuses on the town’s paper mill, which was established in 1559 and was the first of its kind in Austria. It showcases the intricate process of paper production, the wide range of paper products, and the significance of the watermark. The second exhibition highlights the remarkable innovations of the crystal industry, which began in Wattens in 1895 with the establishment of Swarovski. The exhibition explores the process of crystal production and design, as well as showcasing a variety of crystal products from the renowned company.
The third exhibition delves into the town’s history, from its ancient origins to the modern era. It covers significant events such as its inclusion in the Habsburg Monarchy in 1363, its role as a market town, and its experiences during various wars and conflicts. The exhibition provides a comprehensive overview of the town’s landmarks, events, and influential figures. The final exhibition celebrates the rich culture and traditions of Wattens and the surrounding region. It explores the factors that have shaped the local culture, including geography, religion, economy, and society. The exhibition showcases various forms of cultural expression, such as language, literature, art, music, festivals, and customs.
Typewriter Museum
The Typewriter Museum in Wattens is an exceptional and captivating attraction that presents the rich history and evolution of the typewriter, as well as the art of writing, lettering, and text arrangement. The museum showcases a remarkable collection of more than 450 fully-functioning typewriters, curated by Jörg Thien, a highly skilled business machines mechanic. This collection of typewriters spans from 1884 to the present day, offering a fascinating look into the progression and influence of this iconic device on communication, literature, and society.
The museum was founded in 2002 through a collaboration between the Association of Information Technology Pedagogues (vpi) and the municipality of Wattens. The museum is situated in the Andrä-Angerer-Gasse, close to the train station. It operates from Tuesday to Saturday, with opening hours from 14:00 to 17:00. On Wednesdays, it opens from 09:00 to 12:00 and then again from 14:00 to 17:00. Admission to the museum is free, and we have made sure that it is accessible for people with disabilities.
The museum is organized into three sections, each showcasing a unique facet of the typewriter and its rich history. The initial section focuses on the history and evolution of the typewriter, encompassing its early prototypes and models up to the contemporary electronic versions. The second section explores the rich world of culture and art surrounding writing, lettering, and text layout. It delves into the evolution of fonts and styles, from the earliest forms to the more creative and artistic expressions. In the third section, you’ll find a collection of unique and hard-to-find typewriters. This includes the very first electric typewriter, the pioneering portable typewriter, and the innovative typewriter with a memory.The museum also showcases typewriters that were owned by notable individuals, including Nobel Prize winner Elias Canetti, writer Thomas Bernhard, and composer Josef Pembaur.
The Typewriter Museum in Wattens is a captivating attraction for those fascinated by the rich history and cultural significance of the typewriter and the art of writing. The museum is a captivating collection of knowledge and motivation, showcasing the remarkable talent and ingenuity of the typewriter makers and users.The museum is a captivating destination that allows visitors to relive the enchantment and charm of the typewriter, evoking a sense of nostalgia and wonder.
St. Lawrence's Church
The St. Lawrence’s Church in Wattens is a captivating destination that highlights the rich religious and architectural history of the town. This church, constructed in the 12th century, holds the distinction of being the oldest church in Wattens. The architecture of this building showcases a Romanesque style, featuring a round apse, a flat ceiling, and a bell tower. The collection includes a variety of artworks and relics, including frescoes, a crucifix, a baptismal font, and tombstones.
The church is devoted to St. Lawrence, who is revered as the patron saint of deacons, cooks, and comedians. St. Lawrence, a deacon of the early Christian church in Rome, was martyred in 258 AD during the persecution of Emperor Valerian. Legend has it that St. Lawrence displayed remarkable wit even in the face of his gruesome execution. As he was being roasted alive on a gridiron, he fearlessly quipped to his executioners, humorously requesting to be turned over, as he believed he had been fully cooked on one side. The depiction shows him holding a gridiron, a book, and a palm branch, which symbolize his martyrdom, his faith, and his victory.
The church is situated in the heart of Wattens, in close proximity to the bustling main square and vibrant market. The church welcomes visitors with open doors, providing regular services and masses, along with guided tours and concerts. The church is a popular destination for pilgrims and those seeking spiritual solace. It houses a collection of revered relics and sacred icons, including the Madonna of Wattens, a remarkable wooden statue of the Virgin Mary that dates back to the 15th century.The church also showcases a variety of sculptures and monuments, including the war memorial, the angel statue, and the cross.
This church is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in the rich history and vibrant culture of Wattens and Tyrol. The church is a remarkable source of knowledge and motivation, showcasing the remarkable talent and ingenuity of the builders and artists.The church serves as a sacred space for worship and prayer, inviting visitors to explore and embrace the profound beauty and enigmatic nature of the Christian faith.
Marienkirche - Neue Pfarrkirche
The Marienkirche – Neue Pfarrkirche (Mary’s Church – New Parish Church) in Wattens is a captivating and contemporary attraction that beautifully displays the religious and architectural legacy of the town. The church was constructed between 1955 and 1958, with a special dedication to the Immaculate Conception of Mary. The church is situated in the Marienplatz, the bustling heart of the town. It forms an integral part of a complex that encompasses the parish house, the parish hall, and the sexton’s house. The church welcomes visitors with open doors, providing regular services and masses, along with guided tours and concerts.
The church was designed by the architects Charlotte and Karl Pfeiler, who crafted a rectangular building featuring a towering south tower and a sleek flat roof. The church boasts a refined and sophisticated exterior, featuring a pristine white plastered facade complemented by a sturdy red brick base. The church boasts a spacious and luminous interior, adorned with a striking green marble floor and a beautifully crafted wooden ceiling. The church features a solitary nave, accompanied by an elevated and indented choir area.The church showcases a sleek and contemporary design, emphasizing the interplay of light, space, and color.
The church showcases a diverse collection of artworks and decorations, crafted by both local talents and renowned artists. The main entrance features a three-part portal adorned with bronze doors. These doors beautifully depict scenes from the life of Mary and the saints, crafted by the talented sculptors Ilse Glaninger and Margareta Gabrielli. The main window above the portal features a stunning seven-part stained glass design. It showcases musical angels encircling a symbolic sun, created by the talented painter Fred Hochschwarzer. The main altar features a stunning statue of the Immaculate Conception, adorned with a radiant halo, crafted by the renowned sculptor Josef Staud. The side altars feature statues of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, all created by the same artist. The pulpit features copper reliefs of Christ and the twelve apostles, skillfully crafted by the talented metalworker Sepp Baumgartner. The baptismal font features a silver lid adorned with intricate reliefs depicting the fall of man, the baptism of Christ, and the entrance to heaven. These stunning works of art were created by the same talented artist. The two ambo feature bronze reliefs of the four evangelists and the four prophets, crafted by Ilse Glaninger.The stations of the cross feature bronze reliefs depicting the passion of Christ, all created by the same artist.
Additionally, the church features a lower church that is utilized for more intimate services and events. The lower church exudes a charming and inviting ambiance, characterized by its wooden floor and vaulted ceiling. The lower church features a modest altar, a tabernacle, and a crucifix. The lower church also contains a chapel that is dedicated to the Madonna of Wattens. Inside, there is a wooden statue of the Virgin Mary that dates back to the 15th century.The statue holds great significance for the local community, and is proudly paraded during special events.
Sagenpark Wattens
The Sagenpark in Wattens is a captivating attraction that showcases the local legends and myths of Wattens and the surrounding area. Established in 1999 as part of the Tiroler Sagen- und Märchenfestival, the Sagenpark features over 20 sculptures and paintings created by various artists, all inspired by the characters and stories of Tyrolean folklore. Located near the train station in Andrä-Angerer-Gasse, the Sagenpark is open year-round and offers free admission, making it accessible to all visitors, including those with disabilities.
Among the famous sagas displayed at the Sagenpark are the tales of the Giant Haymon, the Sill Dragon, the Fiery Dog, and the Mermaid of Achensee. The legend of the Giant Haymon tells the story of the founder of Innsbruck, a giant warrior who fought against the Romans and Bavarians, built a monastery in Wilten, and even slayed a dragon guarding a treasure in the Sill River. The Sill Dragon saga recounts the terror caused by a fearsome dragon in Innsbruck, which was eventually defeated by Haymon, resulting in the river turning red and forming two islands. The Fiery Dog legend revolves around a ghostly dog that haunted the castle of Ambras, foretelling the death of its lords, while the Mermaid of Achensee tale tells of a beautiful mermaid who fell in love with a fisherman, granting him wealth and prosperity until he lost a ring and remembered his family.
In addition to these well-known sagas, the Sagenpark also showcases lesser-known and original Tyrolean legends. The Witch of Wattens tells the story of a witch who practiced black magic and brought curses and disasters upon the villagers, evading capture and seeking revenge on her enemies. The Giant of Wattenberg, on the other hand, was a friendly giant who aided the people of Wattenberg, protected them, and was honored with a statue and festival. Lastly, the Dragon of Kolsassberg terrorized the villages and castles, demanding tribute and sacrifice until a knight defeated him, freeing the people and claiming the dragon’s hidden treasure.
With its diverse collection of sculptures and paintings depicting these captivating sagas, the Sagenpark in Wattens offers visitors a unique and immersive experience into the rich cultural heritage of Tyrol.
