Gmunden
Roman Catholic·Austria·Active town, with historical sites and tourist attractions.·5th century CE (settlement), 12th century (fortified place)
Gmunden is a town in Upper Austria, situated on the Traun River and the shores of Lake Traunsee, surrounded by mountains. Historically, it was a fortified settlement known for its salt industry and naval supply contributions. The town has been a popular health and summer resort in later years, offering various therapeutic baths and hydropathic treatments.
Key Facts
- ›Located on the Traun River and Lake Traunsee in Upper Austria.
- ›A settlement existed by the 5th century CE and became a fortified place by 1186.
- ›Granted town status in 1278.
- ›Historically an important center for the salt industry.
- ›Frequented as a health and summer resort with various baths and hydropathic establishments in later years.
- ›The municipality is divided into five boroughs: Gmunden, Gmunden-Ort, Schlagen, Traundorf, and Unterm Stein.
Lake Traunsee, Traun River, Traunstein Mountain, Erlakogel Mountain, Wilder Kogel Mountain, HöLlengebirge Mountains, Schloss Ort, Traun Fall, Gmundner Keramik Factory, Town Hall
Johannes Von Gmunden, Karl Scherffer, Caspar Erasmus Duftschmid, Matthias Von SchöNerer, Friedrich Theodor Vischer, Carl Rahl, John Haswell, Count Richard Belcredi, Christian Griepenkerl, Horaz Krasnopolski, William Heaton-Armstrong, Ludwig Bemelmans, Walter Reder, Alfred Hilbe, Thomas Bernhard, SzöRéNyi Levente, Helmut TrawöGer, Heinrich Schiff, Christoph Ransmayr, Andreas Berger, Gabi Burgstaller, Jory Vinikour, Conchita Wurst, Princess Maria Antonia of the Two Sicilies, Marie of Saxe-Altenburg, George V of Hanover, Ernest Augustus, Crown Prince of Hanover, Princess Frederica of Hanover, Princess Marie of Hanover, Princess Thyra of Denmark, Archduchess Margarete Sophie of Austria, Princess Marie Louise of Hanover, Frederick Francis Iv, Princess Alexandra of Hanover, Ludwig Rudolph Von Hannover
- Illyrians Mined Salt Around 1000 Bce.
- A Settlement Existed By the 5th Century Ce.
- Became A Fortified Place By 1186.
- Became A Town In 1278.
- Rebellious Peasants Defeated By General Pappenheim On November 14, 1626.
- Supplied Naval Ships To Austria During the 17th Century.
- Helped Wounded Soldiers In Hospitals During World War I.
- An Ss Maternity Home Was Located Here During World War Ii.
About Gmunden
Gmunden is a town nestled in the picturesque landscape of Upper Austria, situated on the western shore of Lake Traunsee and along the Traun River. The town is characterized by its stunning natural setting, surrounded by imposing mountains such as the Traunstein and the Höllengebirge. Its history stretches back to ancient times, with evidence of Illyrian salt mining dating to 1000 BCE and a settlement existing by the 5th century CE. By 1186, Gmunden had developed into a fortified settlement, and it officially received town status in 1278.
Historically, Gmunden played a significant role in the region's economy, notably as an important center for the salt industry in Salzkammergut. During the 17th century, it contributed to Austria's naval strength. In more recent times, Gmunden has been recognized for its therapeutic offerings, becoming a frequented health and summer resort. Visitors could avail themselves of various lake, brine, and pine-cone baths, as well as hydropathic establishments and inhalation chambers.
The municipality of Gmunden is administratively divided into five boroughs: Gmunden, Gmunden-Ort, Schlagen, Traundorf, and Unterm Stein. The town's population reflects a diverse religious landscape, with Roman Catholicism being the predominant faith, followed by Protestant, Muslim, and Eastern Orthodox communities. Gmunden's appeal extends to its cultural and natural attractions, including the historic Schloss Ort, the dramatic Traun Fall, and the renowned Gmundner Keramik pottery factory, making it a destination that blends historical depth with scenic beauty.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Gmunden become a town?
Gmunden was officially granted town status in 1278. Prior to this, it was a fortified settlement by 1186.
What is the geographical setting of Gmunden?
Gmunden is situated next to Lake Traunsee on the Traun River. It is surrounded by high mountains, including the Traunstein and the Höllengebirge.
What was Gmunden historically known for?
Historically, Gmunden was an important center of the salt industry in the Salzkammergut region. It also supplied naval ships to Austria during the 17th century.
What are the main attractions in Gmunden?
Notable points of interest include the Traun Fall, the castle Schloss Ort, and a ceramic factory producing Gmundner Keramik. The town hall is also a popular tourist destination.
What is the religious composition of Gmunden's population?
The majority of Gmunden's population is Roman Catholic (69.3%). Other faiths include Lutherans (7.3%), Muslims (5.9%), and Eastern Orthodox (3.3%), with approximately 10.3% being irreligious.
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