Vöcklabruck is a municipality with 12,378 inhabitants (as of January 1, 2020) in the Hausruckviertel in Upper Austria. The city is the center of the Vöckla-Ager-Senke, the second most important economic area in Upper Austria. As the seat of the district administration and the district court of Vöcklabruck, it is also an important administrative town, a regionally important shopping and business town and, as the location of various secondary schools, also a relevant school town.
Vöcklabruck, a charming town in Upper Austria with around 12,300
residents, serves as the administrative capital of its namesake
district. Nestled in the Alpine foothills along the Vöckla River, it
boasts a rich history dating back to Celtic and Roman times, with
Bavarian settlement beginning around 550 AD. First documented in 1134 as
"Pons Veckelahe," it evolved into a prosperous market town by the 14th
century, gaining city status sometime thereafter. The town endured
turbulent periods, including peasant wars during the Reformation and
Counter-Reformation, the Thirty Years' War, Napoleonic plundering in the
early 19th century, and even a sub-camp of Mauthausen concentration camp
during WWII. Post-war, it experienced economic growth, notably with the
invention of Eternit (an asbestos-cement material) in 1893, transforming
it into a regional hub for education, commerce, and industry. Today,
Vöcklabruck blends medieval heritage with modern amenities, earning its
nickname as the "gateway to the Salzkammergut" due to its proximity to
stunning lakes like Attersee (11 km away), Traunsee (16 km), Mondsee (40
km), Hallstättersee (68 km), and Wolfgangsee (72 km).
The
historic core revolves around the picturesque **Stadtplatz (Town
Square)**, a vibrant pedestrian area lined with colorful Baroque
facades, cafes, shops, and historic buildings. This central hub reflects
the town's medieval layout, with the Vöckla River flowing nearby, adding
to its scenic ambiance. It's a lively spot for locals and visitors,
hosting markets on Wednesdays and Saturdays where you can find fresh
produce, flowers, meats, and antiques. The square often features events
like the annual strawberry festival or seasonal decorations, making it
an ideal starting point for exploration.
Dominating the
Stadtplatz are the iconic **Stadttürme (City Towers)**, two medieval
gate towers that once formed part of the town's fortifications. Dating
back to the 15th century, these structures feature striking frescoes
uncovered in the 1960s, attributed to the Tyrolean artist Jörg Kölderer
from around 1502. The paintings depict heraldic motifs and historical
scenes, linking them to similar works in Innsbruck's Saggenburg Castle
(which were destroyed in 1766). The towers, painted in white with red
stripes, include clocks and arched gateways, symbolizing Vöcklabruck's
medieval past. They offer a glimpse into the town's defensive history
and are among its most photographed landmarks.
Religious
architecture forms a cornerstone of Vöcklabruck's sights. The
**Wallfahrtskirche Maria Schöndorf (Pilgrimage Church of Maria
Schöndorf)**, also known as Schöndorfer Kirche, is the town's oldest
building, constructed before 824 as an early medieval fortified church.
Perched on a small hill, its thick stone walls served as a refuge during
turbulent times. Over centuries, it evolved into a Gothic pilgrimage
site dedicated to the Virgin Mary, featuring a robust tower and simple
yet elegant interior with vaulted ceilings and altars. The surrounding
cemetery adds to its serene, historic atmosphere, and it's a popular
spot for quiet reflection or enjoying views of the town.
Another
highlight is the **Dörflkirche or Ägidiuskirche (St. Giles' Church)**, a
Baroque gem built between 1688 and 1691 by architect Carlo Antonio
Carlone. Its interior showcases intricate stucco work by Giovanni
Battista Carlone and frescoes by Carlo Antonio Bussi, depicting
religious scenes with vibrant colors and dramatic lighting. The church's
elegant facade and onion-domed tower make it a standout in the
townscape.
The **Stadtpfarrkirche St. Ulrich (Parish Church of
St. Ulrich)** is a Gothic structure from the 15th century, serving as
the main parish church. Its tall spire and arched windows exemplify late
medieval design, with an interior featuring ribbed vaults, altarpieces,
and stained glass that highlight the town's religious heritage. Nearby,
the **Evangelische Friedenskirche (Lutheran Church of Peace)** offers a
contrast with its simpler Protestant design, reflecting the region's
diverse religious history.
For cultural enthusiasts, the
**Heimathaus Vöcklabruck (Local Heritage Museum)** delves into the
town's past, with exhibits on regional architecture, including a special
display on traditional Attersee buildings, and the famous Wolfsegg Iron
(a mysterious iron object found in coal, sparking debates about its
origins). Housed in a historic building, it provides insights into daily
life, crafts, and local folklore. The **Museum der Heimatvertriebenen**
focuses on the post-WWII expulsion of ethnic Germans from Eastern
Europe, offering poignant stories and artifacts from those who resettled
in Vöcklabruck. Additionally, the **Museum Alte Stadtmauer und
Schmiedemuseum (Old City Wall and Smithy Museum)** preserves remnants of
the medieval walls and demonstrates traditional blacksmithing
techniques.
Modern attractions include the VARENA Shopping
Center, a large complex with over 90 stores, restaurants, and
entertainment options, blending retail therapy with the town's historic
vibe. For relaxation, the Town Park features a tranquil pond with ducks,
walking paths, and green spaces ideal for picnics.
Outdoor
enthusiasts will appreciate the surrounding forests for hiking and
mountain biking trails, such as the Anton Bruckner Rundweg, which
includes informational plaques on the composer's life (though Bruckner
wasn't born here, the area honors Austrian musical heritage). In winter,
nearby facilities offer ice skating and cross-country skiing. The town's
location makes it a perfect base for day trips to the Salzkammergut
lakes, where swimming, boating, and scenic drives await. Notable nearby
spots include Schloss Wagrain (a Baroque chateau now a school) and the
ruins of Alt Wartenburg castle.
Vöcklabruck's sights offer a deep
dive into Austria's layered history, from ancient fortifications to
Baroque splendor, all set against a backdrop of natural beauty. Whether
wandering the historic streets or venturing to the lakes, the town
provides an authentic, under-the-radar experience in Upper Austria.
By Plane
The town doesn't have its own airport, so fly into a
nearby one and connect by train, bus, or taxi. Linz and Salzburg are the
closest and most practical for most travelers.
Linz Airport
(LNZ), about 48 km away: Take a bus or taxi from the airport to Linz
Hauptbahnhof (main train station, 15-20 minutes), then a direct train to
Vöcklabruck (32-38 minutes, €11-€35). Taxi from the airport directly
takes about 45 minutes and costs €80-€100.
Salzburg Airport (SZG),
about 54 km away: Catch the line 2 bus from the airport to Salzburg
Hauptbahnhof (15 minutes), then a direct train to Vöcklabruck (39
minutes, total journey around 1 hour 10 minutes, €11-€40). A taxi from
the airport takes about 50 minutes and costs €90-€120.
Munich Airport
(MUC), about 143 km away (useful for international flights): Take a
train via Salzburg Hauptbahnhof to Vöcklabruck (around 3 hours 2
minutes-3 hours 33 minutes, €30-€310, with changes). Driving or taxi
takes 1.5-2 hours but is pricier (€200+ for taxi).
For flight
searches, use Google Flights or similar.
By Train
This is
often the fastest and most efficient option, as Vöcklabruck has a
central train station (Bahnhofstrasse 17, a 5-minute walk to the town
center) on the main Westbahn line operated by ÖBB and Westbahn. Trains
run frequently from key hubs.
From Vienna: Direct services take 1
hour 43 minutes-2 hours, starting from €10.
From Salzburg: Direct
trains take 39 minutes, €12-€27.
From Linz: Direct trains take 32
minutes, €11-€35.
Book tickets online via ÖBB or Omio for
discounts on advance purchases. Regional tickets for Upper Austria
(e.g., weekly/monthly passes) are available if you're traveling locally.
By Bus
Buses are a budget-friendly alternative, especially for
shorter regional trips, though less frequent for long distances. Check
FlixBus, Busbud, or Omio for routes.
From Salzburg: Around 1
hour, starting from €10.
From Vienna or Linz: 2-3 hours, fares from
€15-€25 (direct or with stops).
Local buses (e.g., lines 531, 584,
706, 722) connect from nearby towns like Gmunden (35 minutes).
The main bus station is near the train station for easy transfers.
By Car
If driving, use the A1 motorway (Westautobahn) for
straightforward access.
Exit at Regau if coming from the west
(e.g., Linz, about 45 minutes drive).
Exit at Seewalchen if coming
from the east (e.g., Salzburg, about 39 minutes drive).
From Vienna:
About 2.5 hours via A1.
Austria requires a vignette (toll
sticker) for motorways; buy one at gas stations or online. Parking in
Vöcklabruck is available in the town center, often paid during weekdays.
Prehistoric and Roman Periods
The region's human activity dates
back to prehistoric times, with evidence of Celtic populations
inhabiting the area around Vöcklabruck. These early inhabitants lived in
the fertile valleys of the Alpine foothills, engaging in agriculture and
trade. By around 15 AD, the Romans conquered the area, incorporating it
into the province of Noricum. Roman influence brought infrastructure,
such as roads and settlements, though Vöcklabruck itself was not a major
Roman center. Artifacts from this era, including tools and structures,
have been uncovered in nearby sites, reflecting the integration of local
Celtic tribes into the Roman Empire.
Early Medieval Period
(Bavarian Settlement)
Following the fall of the Roman Empire, the
area saw significant changes with the migration of peoples. Around 550
AD, Bavarian settlers began arriving in the Vöckla Valley, establishing
one of the oldest Bavarian settlement areas in what is now Austria. This
"Bavarian landnahme" (land-taking) laid the foundation for enduring
population and cultural structures. The name "Vöcklabruck" derives from
the river Vöckla (originally from a personal name 'Vechela' combined
with 'Ache,' meaning river) and 'Bruck' (bridge), highlighting the
town's strategic location at a river crossing.
The earliest
documented reference to the area comes from 824 AD, when a document
records a land transfer by a man named Mahtuni to the Mondsee monastery.
This included properties in the Attergau region, with the contract
renewed in the church at Scugindorf (modern Schöndorf). The Maria
Schöndorf Church, perched on a hill, is the town's oldest building and
served as a fortified refuge during this period, underscoring the
religious and defensive roles of early settlements.
High and Late
Medieval Periods (Founding and Growth)
Vöcklabruck was first
mentioned by name in 1134 as "Pons Veckelahe" (Bridge over the Vöckla),
marking its emergence as a notable crossing point. Between 1134 and
1143, Pilgrim von Weng, a local noble, founded a hospice on the bridge's
left bank—the oldest in Upper Austria and the third oldest in the
German-speaking world managed by a brotherhood. This hospice, now part
of the Dörfl Church (St. Ägidius), reflects the town's early role in
pilgrim routes and healthcare.
In the 12th century, the Babenberg
dynasty likely planned the town's core layout, including the Stadtplatz
(town square) enclosed by two gate towers, to secure their holdings
after acquiring lands from the Count of Regau. By the 14th century,
Vöcklabruck had evolved from a market community into a prosperous town,
gaining city status gradually without a formal charter. In 1358, Duke
Albrecht II's deathbed recognition affirmed its urban privileges. The
medieval fortifications, including the iconic Stadttürme (city towers)
with frescoes from around 1502 by Tyrolean artist Jörg Kölderer,
symbolized Habsburg influence and defense needs. These towers, uncovered
and restored in the 1950s and 1960s, feature heraldic motifs linking to
Emperor Maximilian I.
The late medieval period also saw the
construction of key religious sites, such as the Gothic Parish Church of
St. Ulrich in the 15th century, with its ribbed vaults and altarpieces.
Early Modern Period (Wars, Reformation, and Pawnage)
The 16th and
17th centuries were turbulent. During the Reformation, peasant uprisings
plagued the region, exacerbated by religious tensions. In 1620, Emperor
Ferdinand II pawned Upper Austria, including Vöcklabruck, to Bavarian
Duke Maximilian I for military support. This led to intensified
Counter-Reformation efforts under Governor Adam Graf von Herberstorff.
The infamous Frankenburger Würfelspiel in 1625—where uprising leaders'
fates were decided by dice—sparked the Upper Austrian Peasants' War in
1626. Bloody conflicts ensued in 1632 between peasants and imperial
troops during the Thirty Years' War.
By 1628, the pawnage ended, but
Vöcklabruck was repawned briefly. In 1718, Emperor Karl VI redeemed the
town, restoring its privileges and compensating for losses. The Baroque
era brought architectural enhancements, such as the Dörfl Church rebuilt
in 1688–1691 by Carlo Antonio Carlone, with stucco by Giovanni Battista
Carlone and frescoes by Carlo Antonio Bussi.
19th Century
(Napoleonic Era and Industrialization)
The Napoleonic Wars disrupted
the town; in 1809, after the Peace of Schönbrunn, Vöcklabruck fell under
French control and was ceded to Bavaria before returning to Austria in
1814 via the Congress of Vienna. It joined the Hausruckkreis
administrative region.
In 1850, the Franziskanerinnen von Vöcklabruck
order was founded by priest Sebastian Schwarz and a devoted sister,
focusing on education and care. The Protestant Church of Peace, built
1871–1875 by architect Hermann Wehrenpfenning, marked the recognition of
Protestantism in Upper Austria. Industrial growth accelerated in 1893
with the founding of the Hatschek company, which invented Eternit
(asbestos-cement material). This innovation boosted the economy but
later raised health concerns, leading to asbestos removal efforts. In
1868, the district administration was established, solidifying
Vöcklabruck's regional role.
20th Century (World Wars and
Post-War Development)
Financial strains post-World War I led to the
issuance of Notgeld (emergency money) in 1919–1920, featuring local
landmarks like the Maria Schöndorf Church.
During World War II
(1938–1945), the town avoided major destruction but hosted a subcamp of
Mauthausen concentration camp in Wagrain from June 1941 to May 1942.
Approximately 300 prisoners, mainly Spanish, labored on infrastructure
for the SS firm Deutsche Erd- und Steinwerke GmbH before transfer to
another camp.
Post-1945, Vöcklabruck expanded with new districts in
Schöndorf and Dürnau to house Heimatvertriebene (expellees) from Eastern
Europe, now comprising over half the population. The Museum der
Heimatvertriebenen documents this history. Economic growth surged after
1990, transforming the town into a commercial center with facilities
like the VARENA shopping complex.
Cultural ties include composer
Anton Bruckner, who vacationed here, celebrated milestones, and composed
parts of his symphonies. The Heimatmuseum features exhibits on him and
local folklore, including prehistoric items and the enigmatic Wolfsegg
Iron.
Recent History (Late 20th–21st Century)
The town hosted
events like the 1985 International Fire Brigade Competitions, the 2003
European Shooting Festival, and celebrated its 850th anniversary in
1984. In 1999, Princess Alexandra of Hanover was born at the local
hospital. More recently, in 2024, an arson incident by teenagers damaged
a historic building, highlighting ongoing preservation challenges.
Today, Vöcklabruck balances its medieval heritage—evident in sites like
the Old Town Wall Museum and Blacksmith's Museum—with modern industry
and tourism as the "gateway to the Salzkammergut." Its history reflects
Austria's broader narrative of conquest, religious strife, and
resilience.