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.
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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.
The Salzkammergut (Austrian German: [ˈsaltskamɐɡuːt], Northern German: [ˈzaltskamɐɡuːt] ; Central Austro-Bavarian: Soizkaumaguad) is a resort area in Austria, stretching from the city of Salzburg eastwards along the Alpine Foreland and the Northern Limestone Alps to the peaks of the Dachstein Mountains. The main river of the region is the Traun, a right tributary of the Danube.
The name Salzkammergut translates to "salt demesne" (or "salt domain"), Kammergut being a German word for territories held by princes of the Holy Roman Empire, in early modern Austria specifically territories of the Habsburg monarchy. The salt mines of Salzkammergut were administered by the Imperial Salzoberamt in Gmunden from 1745 to 1850.
Parts of the region were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.
