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Hallstatt-Dachstein / Salzkammergut Cultural Landscape
NHK World Heritage 100 Series
DonwloadNarration Text
Glacial activities of the Alps created valleys over a long period. 76 lakes in the valleys of the Salzkammergut region of Austria create a magnificent landscape. Hallstatt is considered the most beautiful lakeside town in the world. Just 1,000 people live here. The town was sadly destroyed by fire in 1750.
This house survived and is now the Hallstatt’s oldest building. There is a water-pump near the entrance. Water inside the pipe is pumped through the screw by turning a handle. The screw inside the tube is made of wood. Dense forest around the town is a rich source of timber. Even the church steeple is made of wood. As are some houses – which is rarely seen in Austria. Wood is also used in the church cemetery. Hallstatt was a thriving town as early as 1000 B.C. due to the abundance of rock salt from nearby mountains. Hallstatt means "City of Salt". This was the main haulage route from the salt mine. It was opened by the Hapsburgs in 1719.
The Hapsburgs had direct control over the town. People from all over Europe gathered in Hallstatt because of the salt trade. Cuts in the surface show traces of mining activity. Rock salt, in the Middle Ages, was known as "white gold" and highly valued. Some parts of the salt mines are still used today, continuing the tradition of salt production.
Hallstatt - the most beautiful lakeside town" - is a fine example of man and nature coexisting in harmony.