Wachau Cultural Landscape in Austria

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Arbeitskreis Wachau

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 2000
Size of heritage: 18,387 ha
- Buffer zone: 2,942 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 15,434°
Latitude: 48,364°

Summary

The Wachau is a stretch of the Danube Valley between Melk and Krems, a landscape of high visual quality. It preserves in an intact and visible form many traces - in terms of architecture, (monasteries, castles, ruins), urban design, (towns and villages), and agricultural use, principally for the cultivation of vines - of its evolution since prehistoric times.

Location on Map

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Wachau Cultural Landscape: A Historic Gem in Austria

The Wachau Cultural Landscape, located in the towns of Krems and Melk in Lower Austria, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the rich history and natural beauty of the region. Spanning over 36 kilometers along the Danube River, this cultural landscape is a testament to the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature.

History

The history of the Wachau Cultural Landscape dates back to prehistoric times, with evidence of human settlements found in the area. However, it was during the Middle Ages that the region flourished, becoming an important trade route and center of cultural exchange. The towns of Krems and Melk played a crucial role in this development, with their strategic locations attracting merchants, artists, and scholars.

During the 11th and 12th centuries, the Wachau region witnessed the construction of numerous castles, monasteries, and fortifications, which still stand today as a testament to the architectural prowess of the time. The most iconic of these structures is the Melk Abbey, a magnificent Benedictine monastery perched atop a hill overlooking the Danube River. Its construction began in the 11th century and continued over several centuries, resulting in a stunning blend of architectural styles.

Throughout the centuries, the Wachau Cultural Landscape has been shaped by the Danube River, which has played a vital role in trade and transportation. The river facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures, contributing to the region's economic and cultural growth.

Current State

Today, the Wachau Cultural Landscape stands as a living testament to the region's rich history and cultural heritage. The towns of Krems and Melk have preserved their medieval charm, with narrow cobblestone streets, well-preserved buildings, and vibrant town squares. Visitors can wander through the historic centers, admiring the architectural marvels and soaking in the unique atmosphere.

The Melk Abbey remains the centerpiece of the Wachau Cultural Landscape. Its grandeur and beauty continue to awe visitors from around the world. The abbey houses a museum, a library with a vast collection of manuscripts, and a breathtaking baroque church. The abbey's gardens offer a tranquil retreat, with meticulously manicured lawns and vibrant flower beds.

The Wachau region is also renowned for its vineyards, which produce some of Austria's finest wines. The terraced vineyards, carefully cultivated over centuries, create a picturesque landscape that adds to the region's charm. Visitors can explore the vineyards, participate in wine tastings, and learn about the winemaking traditions that have been passed down through generations.

Address
Distance: 1,5 mi
Ottenschläger Str. 30
3620 Spitz
Austria

Time Information

Checkout: 10:30 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: 7:00 - 0:00
Weekend: closed

Videos from the area

Heuriger Wachau: Klosterhof im Weingarten in Spitz - Restaurant und Buschenschank

Published: October 20, 2014
Length: 52:07 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: firmenabc1

Die malerische Wachau ist weltbekannt für erstklassige Weine, herrliche Landschaften und gemütliche Heurigen-Besuche. Der Spitzer »Klosterhof im Weingarten« setzt dieser Region die sprichwörtl...

Sonnwendfeier in Spitz an der Donau 2012

Published: June 24, 2012
Length: 33:19 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: dbnredaktion

Spitz / Donau (Niederösterreich) 23. Juni 2012. - Eine der wohl imposantesten und stimmungsvollsten Sommersonnwendfeiern fand gestern in Spitz an der Donau statt. Während im Vorjahr die ...

Szent Iván Éj, 2012, Spitz an der Donau, Ausztria

Published: January 28, 2015
Length: 33:26 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: János Egresi

Szent Iván Éj, 2012, Spitz an der Donau, Ausztria. Utazás MÁV Nosztalgia Élményutazás. Dürnsteinben megállás, a város megtekintése a Ágoston-rendi kolostor és Plébániatemplom,...

Wachaubahn Betriebsjahr 2012 - Sonderzüge

Published: December 31, 2014
Length: 27:19 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: roland dworschak

Das Betriebsjahres 2012 auf der Wachaubahn. Neben der M61 001 2761017 der MAV mit Sonderzug aus Ungarn, konnten noch weitere Loks wie die 33.132 der B&B Blue Train aus St. Pölten zur ...

Feuerwerk Sonnwendfeuer Wachau 2009

Published: June 23, 2009
Length: 36:56 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: Fatmax1982

Feuerwerk beim Sonnwendfeuer in Spitz an der Donau - Wachau 2009.

Donauuferbahn 2012 11 27_640x360

Published: November 07, 2012
Length: 25:03 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: roland dworschak

Sonderzug auf der Donauuferbahn Unter dem Motto "Abschiedsfahrt auf der Donauuferbahn" fuhr am 27.11.2010 ein "Fotozug" mit vielen Halten die von den Fotografen ausgiebig genutzt wurden.

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