Hallstatt - Hallstatt-Dachstein / Salzkammergut Cultural Landscape
Hallstatt, Austria
20.09.2018
Hallstatt is a small village situated on the western shore of the Hallstätter See (Hallstatt Lake) in the Salkammergut region of Austria. It is known as the "Pearl of the Salzkammergut" due to its picturesque location and rich history.
The history of Hallstatt can be traced back to the Iron Age, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in Europe. The village is most famous for its long tradition of salt mining, which dates back over 7000 years. The Salt Mine of Hallstatt is one of the oldest and most productive salt mines in the world, and it played a significant role in the development of the village.
In addition to its salt mining history, Hallstatt is also known for its beautiful Baroque architecture, particularly the Parish Church of Hallstatt which was built in the 18th century. The church is dedicated to Saint Michael and is a popular tourist attraction due to its stunning interior and picturesque location overlooking the lake.
The village is also home to the Hallstatt Museum, which showcases the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about the village's past.
In 1997, Hallstatt was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its unique cultural and natural significance. The village is not only renowned for its history and architecture but also for its breathtaking natural scenery. The surrounding mountains and the crystal-clear lake make it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and boating.
Today, Hallstatt is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. Its charm and beauty have also made it a popular filming location, with many movies and TV shows being shot in the village.
Further Links:
Human activity in the magnificent natural landscape of the Salzkammergut began in prehistoric times, with the salt deposits being exploited as early as the 2nd millennium BC. This resource formed the basis of the area’s prosperity up to the middle of the 20th century, a prosperity that is reflected in the fine architecture of the town of Hallstatt.
Hallstatt (German: [ˈhalʃtat] ) is a small town in the district of Gmunden, in the Austrian state of Upper Austria. Situated between the southwestern shore of Hallstätter See and the steep slopes of the Dachstein massif, the town lies in the Salzkammergut region, on the national road linking Salzburg and Graz.
Hallstatt is known for its production of salt, dating back to prehistoric times, and gave its name to the Hallstatt culture, the archaeological culture linked to Proto-Celtic and early Celtic people of the Early Iron Age in Europe, c. 800–450 BC.
Hallstatt is at the core of the Hallstatt-Dachstein/Salzkammergut Cultural Landscape declared as one of the World Heritage Sites in Austria by UNESCO in 1997. It is an area of overtourism.
