Culture and Local Tradition of Wattens

Wattens boasts a vibrant and varied culture, deeply rooted in its fascinating history, unique geography, thriving economy, and close-knit society.

Language

Wattens is a town where multiple languages are spoken by its residents, with German being the official and most commonly used language. The German spoken in Wattens is a variation of the Austro-Bavarian dialect, showcasing distinct differences in pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar compared to standard German. The dialect is a reflection of the town’s historical and cultural connections with Bavaria and Tyrol, as well as its position in the Inn Valley. The local industries, including paper, crystal, and metal, have had a significant impact on the dialect, resulting in the incorporation of specific terms and expressions. The dialect is widely spoken by the majority of the native and long-term residents of Wattens, serving as a significant aspect of their identity and a source of great pride. The dialect is taught in schools and preserved in literature and media.

In addition to German, Wattens is home to a diverse population of foreign-born and foreign-nationality residents who speak a wide range of languages, including Turkish, Croatian, Serbian, Bosnian, English, Italian, and Polish. The languages spoken in the town are a reflection of its migration patterns and diversity, showcasing its commitment to openness and integration. The languages are also utilized in various public and private institutions, including the Wattens Innovation Hub, the Wattens Business Academy, and the Swarovski Crystal Worlds. These institutions cater to the diverse and global community of Wattens.

Religion

Wattens has a predominantly Roman Catholic population, with approximately 80% of its residents being members of the Catholic Church. Wattens has a rich history of Catholicism, with its roots tracing back to the Middle Ages when it was under the Diocese of Brixen. The town’s architecture, art, and festivals reflect the Catholic faith, including the St. Lawrence Church, the Wattens Cemetery, and the Easter and Christmas markets. The town’s parishes, schools, and associations, including the Wattens Parish, the Wattens Music School, and the Wattens Catholic Women’s Movement, also embrace the Catholic faith.

In addition to Catholicism, Wattens is home to a variety of Christian denominations including Protestantism, Orthodoxy, and Mormonism. It also has a presence of other religions such as Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism. The town’s diversity and tolerance are reflected in these religions, along with a strong sense of respect and dialogue. The town’s institutions include the Wattens Evangelical Church, the Wattens Islamic Cultural Center, and the Wattens Buddhist Temple, representing various religions.

Art

Wattens is a town known for its thriving art and creative community, which has a strong historical background and continues to push boundaries with its modern and innovative approach. The art in the town is a reflection of its rich history, vibrant culture, thriving industry, and the unique blend of its natural and urban surroundings. The town’s art scene is incredibly diverse and eclectic, showcasing a wide range of styles and techniques. Visitors can explore everything from classical masterpieces to cutting-edge contemporary works, from realistic portrayals to abstract interpretations, and from traditional art forms to experimental creations. The town’s art is showcased and honored in a variety of venues and events, including:

Swarovski Crystal Worlds: This popular destination is a must-visit in Austria, drawing in countless visitors from all over. This place is a combination of a museum and a theme park, where you can explore the fascinating world of crystal, its history, art, and magical qualities. The museum showcases a colossal water-spouting head known as the Giant, stationed 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 museum showcases the life and work of Daniel Swarovski, along with an extensive collection of crystals, featuring pieces by renowned artists such as Brian Eno and Niki de Saint Phalle.The theme park provides a diverse range of attractions, including a crystal cloud, labyrinth, play tower, carousel, and garden. In addition to its exhibits, the museum offers a shop, a restaurant, and a café.
Local Museums and Galleries: Wattens has several museums and galleries that showcase the town’s history, culture, and creativity. Some of them are:
- Museum Wattens: This is the town’s main museum, located in the former town hall. It exhibits the history of Swarovski, the paper mill, and the excavations in Wattens, as well as in neighbouring Volders and Fritzens. The museum also displays the town’s art, culture, and traditions.
- Typewriter Museum: This is a unique museum, located in the former paper mill. It displays a collection of over 1,000 typewriters, dating from the 19th century to the present day. The museum also features the history of writing, communication, and technology.
- Sagenpark: This is a park and a gallery, located in the center of Wattens. It exhibits sculptures and paintings inspired by the local legends and myths of Wattens and the surrounding area.
Cultural Landmarks: Wattens has several cultural landmarks that reflect the town’s heritage and identity. Some of them are:
- St. Lawrence Church: This is the town’s main church, located in the main square. It was built in the 15th century, and renovated in the 18th century. It has a Gothic nave, a Baroque tower, and a Rococo interior. The church contains several artworks, such as an altarpiece by Martin Knoller, and a statue of St. Lawrence by Franz Xaver Messerschmidt.
- Wattens Cemetery: This is the town’s cemetery, located on the northern bank of the Inn River. It was established in 1898, and contains the graves of many notable people, such as Daniel Swarovski and his family, and the composer Josef Pembaur.
- Wattens Castle: This is a castle, located on a hill above the town. It was built in the 13th century, and served as a residence of the Counts of Tyrol. It was later used as a hunting lodge, a school, and a hospital. Today, it is a private property, and not open to the public.

Music

Wattens is a town known for its vibrant music culture and rich musical heritage. It has a strong tradition of musical education and performance, and a thriving contemporary music scene that offers a wide range of genres and styles. The music of the town is shaped by its rich history, vibrant culture, thriving industry, and the unique blend of nature and urban surroundings. The town’s music scene offers a diverse range of genres, including classical, folk, rock, jazz, and both sacred and secular music. The town’s music is showcased and celebrated in a variety of venues and events, including:

Wattens Music School: The Wattens Music School is situated in the heart of Wattens, serving as the primary hub for musical education in the town. Established in 1952, this institution provides a thorough and top-notch musical education for individuals of all ages. The school has approximately 800 students and 40 teachers, providing a wide range of courses in different instruments, singing, music theory, and ensemble playing. In addition to its academic programs, the school also hosts a variety of musical events, including concerts, recitals, and competitions.
Wattens Music Festival: The Wattens Music Festival is a prominent event in the town, taking place annually during the months of July and August. Established in 1976, this organization showcases exceptional classical music performances by both local and international artists. The festival is held in a variety of venues, including the St. Lawrence Church, the Wattens Castle, and the Swarovski Crystal Worlds.In addition to the festival itself, there are various opportunities for attendees to engage in workshops, lectures, and masterclasses.

Festivals

Wattens has several festivals that celebrate the town’s history, culture, and industry, as well as the seasons and holidays. Some of them are:

Easter Market: This is a market that takes place in the main square, a week before Easter. It offers various products, such as eggs, flowers, crafts, and food. It also features live music, games, and entertainment.
Wattens Innovation Forum: This is a forum that takes place in the Wattens Innovation Hub, in May. It brings together entrepreneurs, innovators, and experts, to discuss and exchange ideas on topics such as technology, design, and social impact. It also features workshops, pitches, and networking opportunities.
Wattens Art Days: This is a festival that takes place in various venues, in June. It showcases the town’s artistic diversity and creativity, with exhibitions, performances, and installations by local and international artists. It also offers workshops, lectures, and tours.
Wattens Music Festival: This is a festival that takes place in various venues, in July and August. It features classical music performances by local and international artists. The festival takes place in various venues, such as the St. Lawrence Church, the Wattens Castle, and the Swarovski Crystal Worlds. The festival also offers workshops, lectures, and masterclasses.
Wattens Business Fair: This is a fair that takes place in the town center, in September. It showcases the town’s economic development and innovation, with exhibitions, presentations, and demonstrations by local and regional companies. It also features competitions, awards, and networking opportunities.
Wattens Film Festival: This is a festival that takes place in the Wattens Cinema, in October. It features film screenings, discussions, and workshops by local and international filmmakers. It also features a film competition, a film market, and a film party.
Christmas Market: This is a market that takes place in the main square, from late November to late December. It offers various products, such as candles, ornaments, crafts, and food. It also features live music, games, and entertainment.
Advent Concert: This is a concert that takes place in the St. Lawrence Church, on the fourth Sunday of Advent. It features musical performances by the Wattens Choir, the Wattens Brass Band, and the Wattens Music School. It also features readings, prayers, and blessings.

Customs

Wattens showcases a variety of customs that beautifully embody the town’s rich traditions, values, and the spirit of each season and holiday.

Paper Flower Making: This is a custom that dates back to the 19th century, when the paper mill workers used to make paper flowers as gifts for their loved ones. The paper flowers are made from colored paper, wire, and glue, and are shaped into various forms, such as roses, lilies, and daisies. The paper flowers are still made and sold today, especially during Easter and Mother’s Day.
Crystal Cutting: This is a custom that dates back to the late 19th century, when Daniel Swarovski invented a machine that could cut crystal more precisely and efficiently. The crystal cutting is a skill and an art, that involves shaping and polishing crystal into various products, such as jewelry, accessories, figurines, optics, lighting, and art. The crystal cutting is still practiced and taught today, especially at the Swarovski Crystal Worlds and the Wattens Innovation Hub.
Easter Egg Hunt: This is a custom that takes place on Easter Sunday, when children search for hidden eggs in the town. The eggs are either real or plastic, and are decorated with various colors and patterns. The eggs are hidden by the parents, the grandparents, or the Easter Bunny, and are usually accompanied by chocolate and candy. The Easter egg hunt is a fun and festive activity, that symbolizes the resurrection of Christ and the renewal of life.
Maypole Raising: This is a custom that takes place on May 1, when a tall and decorated wooden pole is erected in the main square. The maypole is decorated with ribbons, flowers, and signs, and is topped with a wreath and a flag. The maypole raising is a celebration of spring and fertility, and is accompanied by music, dancing, and drinking.
Krampus Run: This is a custom that takes place on December 5, when a group of men dressed as Krampus, a horned and hairy creature, run through the town. The Krampus are the companions of St. Nicholas, and their role is to scare and punish the naughty children. The Krampus run is a tradition of folklore and fun, and is accompanied by bells, chains, and whips.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks: This is a custom that takes place on December 31, when a spectacular fireworks show is launched from the Wattens Castle. The fireworks are a celebration of the end of the year and the beginning of the new one, and are accompanied by music, cheering, and toasting.