On my walk from the railway station of Traunkirchen to the town centre, I came across this vintage place-name sign. The Austrian State of Upper Austria (Oberösterreich) is still labelled as crown land (Kronland).
Tag: Upper Austria
Monument to Franz Wirer
This monument commemorates Franz Wirer von Rettenbach. He is considered the founder of the first Austrian saline water health spa in Bad Ischl. I found this bust in the local spa park (Kurpark). I was pretty impressed by the extraordinary size of the sculpture. [German]
Saint John of Nepomuk
This statue of Saint John of Nepomuk stands at a building named Eheschmiedhaus. The building dates back to the 13th century. The sculpture saw its completion in the first half of the 18th century. I love the levitating angel above his head. [German]
Fun traffic sign in Hallstatt
Beware of the dashing garçon! I saw this – probably unofficial – traffic sign in Hallstatt next to the famous Hallstatt Lake. It makes people aware of waitstaff crossing the street. A local restaurant and its open-air seating area occupy different sides of the lane.
Roman Tombstone in Wels
During the Roman era, the city of Wels was known as Ovilava and served as the capital of the province Noricum Ripense. Ancient remains are still visible in the cityscape. For example, this tombstone is part of a building in the town centre.
Bronze Age Staircase in Hallstatt
The Austrian place of Hallstatt is known for its picture book-like view. But it is also full of history. Archaeologists found a Bronze Age staircase in the nearby salt mines. A public replica of this piece tells us about the finding.
Wels Castle in Upper Austria
The castle in Wels is generally known as the Castle (Die Burg) or the Wels Castle (Die Welser Burg). It was first mentioned in 776. At that time, the site was just a wooden building with palisades. The construction in stone took place in the 12th or 13th century. [German]
City tower of Enns
Enns is considered the oldest city in Austria. Its city landmark is the iconic municipal tower in the middle of the main square. It is widely known for its colourful emblems. For example, you see the city arms and the date of entitling with town privileges.
Bummerlhaus in Steyr
The Bummerlhaus is a late Gothic mansion in the city of Steyr. It is considered one of the finest medieval secular buildings in Austria. Its first mention dates back to 1450, but its oldest part may be from the 13th century.
Paddle steamer “Gisela”
The maiden voyage of the paddle steamer “Gisela” was in 1872. Operated by the Traunsee Schifffahrt, it still runs for cruises, weddings and dinners on Traun Lake (Traunsee). In the photo above, you see the steamer in front of Gmunden. [German]
Kammerhof Museum in Gmunden
The Kammerhof, dating back to 1450, originally housed an authority for administrating the salt monopoly. Today, the Kammerhof Museum of Gmunden uses the old walls. As a curiosity, you find a compilation of historical toilet bowls inside.
Lower Gate of Lamberg Castle
At the foot of Lamberg Castle, a Gothic archway blocks the way to the former palace. People call it Unteres Burgtor (Lower Castle Gate). A fresco depicting two emperors and a medieval view of the town adorns the structure. [German]