Schwaz
Schwaz is a city in the Austrian state of Tyrol, located in the lower Inn valley. Historically, it was a significant silver mining center during the 15th and 16th centuries, making it one of the largest cities in the Austrian Empire at its peak. Today, Schwaz is the administrative center of its district and a hub for industrial companies.
Key Facts
- ›First mentioned as 'Sûates' in deeds dating back to 930–1.
- ›Was a major silver mining center in the 15th and 16th centuries.
- ›Reached a population of approximately 20,000 during its height, making it the second-largest city in the Austrian Empire.
- ›Received city rights in 1898.
- ›Home to the headquarters of three large industrial companies: Tyrolit, Adler Lacke, and DAKA.
- Lower Inn Valley Location
- Foot of the Kellerjoch and Eiblschrofen Mountains
- Former Silver Mining Center
SûAtes
Georg Scherer, Albert JäGer, Maximilian Joseph Von TarnóCzy, Cordula WöHler, Joseph Messner, Hans KöChler, Traudl Hecher, Martin HöLlwarth, Hannes Aigner, Michael Steinlechner, Stephanie Brunner, Franjo Ivanović
- Silver Mining Boom In the 15th and 16th Centuries
- Receiving City Rights In 1898
About Schwaz
Schwaz is a city situated in the Austrian state of Tyrol, nestled in the lower Inn valley. Its geographical position places it midway along the valley, at the base of the Kellerjoch and Eiblschrofen mountains, roughly 30 kilometers east of Innsbruck. The city covers an area of 20.17 square kilometers.
Historical Significance
The earliest documented mention of Schwaz dates back to 930–1, when it was referred to as 'Sûates.' During the 15th and 16th centuries, Schwaz experienced a significant period of prosperity, largely due to its importance as a silver mining center. The mineral wealth extracted here was instrumental for the Fugger banking family and, by extension, for the Austrian emperors of the time. At its zenith, with a population of approximately 20,000 inhabitants, Schwaz was the second-largest city in the Austrian Empire, trailing only Vienna.
Modern Schwaz
Schwaz officially received its city rights in 1898 through a decree by Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria. In contemporary times, the city serves as the administrative center for the Schwaz district. Its economy is supported by the presence of three major industrial companies: Tyrolit, a global producer of bonded abrasives; Adler Lacke, a family-operated manufacturer of coating systems; and DAKA, a regional waste management firm. A number of notable individuals, including historians, artists, clergy, and athletes, are associated with Schwaz, contributing to its rich local history and cultural landscape.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Schwaz first mentioned historically?
Schwaz was first mentioned historically as 'Sûates' in deeds dating back to the period of 930–1. This early record indicates its existence and significance even in the early medieval period.
What was the economic importance of Schwaz in the 15th and 16th centuries?
During the 15th and 16th centuries, Schwaz was a crucial silver mining center. The mineral wealth extracted from its mines was vital for the Fugger banking family and, consequently, for the Austrian emperors.
How large was Schwaz during its historical peak?
At its height in the 15th and 16th centuries, Schwaz had a population of about 20,000 inhabitants. This made it the second-largest city within the Austrian Empire, surpassed only by Vienna.
When did Schwaz officially become a city?
Schwaz received its official city rights in 1898. This recognition was granted by Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria, marking a significant administrative milestone for the settlement.
What are the main industries or companies based in Schwaz today?
Currently, Schwaz is home to the headquarters of three substantial industrial companies. These include Tyrolit, a global producer of bonded abrasives; Adler Lacke, a family-run producer of coating systems; and DAKA, a regional waste management company.
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