More than 7000 years of Living Heritage

The region’s first salt mining can be traced back to the Middle Bronze Age, bringing considerable prosperity to its inhabitants. Salt extraction continued during the Roman period and was carried on from the Early Middle Ages. It became one of the most important sources of revenue for the Habsburgs, who owned the region. To this day, salt is still extracted and sold worldwide.

The Salzkammergut has been of global significance for geological and archaeological research since the 19th century. In particular, archaeological research has contributed greatly to knowledge through extraordinary discoveries, made possible by the unique conditions in the mines.

Hallstatt is an outstanding architectural ensemble, shaped by the great fire of the 18th century: after the devastating blaze that destroyed much of the town, it was rebuilt as a Baroque ensemble, giving the town its distinctive character.

Beyond Hallstatt itself, regionally typical and unique rural traditions have also been preserved. Salt extraction and production are closely linked to a specific way of life, which can still be observed today in the settlements and in the higher-altitude areas of the region.

Lightly modified alpine natural landscape of exceptional scenic value. Specific conditions and historical particularities of alpine forestry, pastoral farming, and transhumance.

The alpine landscape of the Salzkammergut, with the Eastern Alps rising steeply from narrow valleys, offers a dramatic visual spectacle that has long inspired artists. Painters and writers of the Biedermeier period regularly visited the region and drew inspiration from it.

Due to its long-standing, often isolated location, a unique craftsmanship developed over the centuries.