History Of Wattens
The history of Wattens is extensive, stretching back to ancient times and shaped by a multitude of political, cultural, and economic factors.
Origins
Human settlement in Wattens can be traced back to the La Tène era, around the 5th century BC, when the Rhaetians, a Celtic people, inhabited the area.The name Wattens was initially recorded as Vuattanes in a 930 document, during the time when the region was under the rule of the German stem duchy of Bavaria. The name comes from the Celtic word vadetis, which means “ford”. It refers to the crossing of the Inn River. The region was also traversed by the Roman road Via Claudia Augusta, linking Italy with Germany.In Wattens today, one can still witness the remnants of a Roman bridge and a Rhaetian settlement.
Development
The region of Wattens has been under the control of the Counts of Tyrol since the 12th century, and it was incorporated into the Habsburg Monarchy in 1363. Wattens flourished as a market town, capitalizing on its advantageous position and abundant resources. In 1559, a paper mill was established in Wattens, marking the beginning of paper production in the Austrian lands. The paper mill manufactured top-notch paper that served various purposes such as printing, writing, and art. The paper mill also introduced the watermark, a symbol that distinguished the paper’s origin and quality. The town of Wattens still proudly displays its coat of arms, featuring a globus cruciger – a globe with a cross.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, Wattens experienced the devastating impact of numerous wars and conflicts that ravaged Europe, including the Thirty Years’ War, the War of the Spanish Succession, and the Napoleonic Wars. Wattens endured the devastating consequences of occupation, plundering, famine, plague, and fire. The town played a significant role in the Tyrolean Rebellion of 1809, which was led by Andreas Hofer and aimed to resist the French and Bavarian occupation.Wattens witnessed numerous battles and skirmishes, with the local population providing crucial support to the rebels by supplying them with weapons and provisions.
During the 19th century, Wattens underwent a significant period of economic and social recovery and progress. The town experienced a significant boost with the completion of the Lower Inn Valley Railway in 1858, establishing a vital connection to Innsbruck and Munich. The town also experienced a significant transformation with the emergence of the crystal industry, which greatly impacted its destiny and reputation. In 1895, Daniel Swarovski, a glass cutter from Bohemia, established his crystal company Swarovski after settling in Wattens. The invention of his machine revolutionized the crystal industry, opening up new opportunities for the production of exquisite crystal jewelry and accessories.Swarovski emerged as the primary source of employment and export for the town, establishing itself as a prominent global leader and innovator in the crystal industry.
Transformation
Wattens had to navigate through the challenges and opportunities brought by the 20th century, including the two world wars, the Great Depression, and the Cold War. Wattens experienced minimal destruction and devastation, but faced significant economic and social challenges and transformations. The town also saw the growth and diversification of the Swarovski company, as it expanded into different areas including optics, lighting, art, and technology. The company has also set up the Swarovski Foundation, which provides support to a range of causes and projects in the areas of culture, education, health, and the environment.
In 1995, Wattens marked its centenary anniversary as a market town, while the Swarovski company celebrated its own centenary anniversary as a crystal producer. The Swarovski Crystal Worlds were opened on this occasion, showcasing a museum and theme park that celebrate the rich history, art, and enchantment of crystal. The museum was crafted by the Austrian artist André Heller, showcasing a colossal water-spouting head known as the Giant, standing watch 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.The Swarovski Crystal Worlds are a popular tourist destination in Austria, drawing visitors from around the globe.
In the 21st century, Wattens continues to evolve and innovate, as it faces the challenges and opportunities of the global and digital age. The town has flourished as a center of innovation and entrepreneurship, thanks to the creation of the Wattens Innovation Hub. This cutting-edge facility and community has become a magnet for startups and innovators. The hub provides a wide range of services and resources, including co-working spaces, labs, workshops, mentors, and investors. The hub also organizes a range of events and programs, including the Wattens Innovation Forum, the Wattens Innovation Fund, and the Wattens Innovation Award.The hub strives to cultivate creativity, collaboration, and impact across a wide range of fields and sectors, including technology, design, and social.
