Hallein

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Hallein – Salt town with history and culture in the Tennengau

Hallein is located just a few kilometers south of Salzburg and is one of the most historic cities in the country. For centuries, salt mining shaped the economic and cultural life, which is still reflected today in the well-preserved old town and the salt mines. Visitors can expect important museums, impressive buildings, a wide range of recreational opportunities, and a traditional brewing tradition – all nestled in the charming landscape of the Tennengau.

Short info:

Position: 15 km south of Salzburg, in the Tennengau
Population: approx. 21,500 (as of 2023)
Known for: Salt mining, Celtic Museum, historic old town
arrival: By S-Bahn from Salzburg in about 20 minutes
Main attractions: Salt Mines, Celtic Museum, Silent Night Museum
activities: Hiking, cycling, summer toboggan run, skiing
special feature: City with a medieval city center and rich industrial history

Historic old town and salt history

Hallein's old town impresses with its well-preserved medieval buildings, narrow streets, and the atmosphere of a former salt-mining town. The entire old town complex has been a listed monument since 1978. Particularly worth seeing are the city fortifications with the preserved Griestor Gate and the saltworks on Pernerinsel, which now serves as an event venue.

The history of the city is closely linked to salt mining. As early as 600 BC, the Celts began mining salt on the Dürrnberg. Today, the Hallein Salt Mines offer an interactive insight into this history with a mine railway, miners' slides and a raft ride across an underground salt lake.

Hallein Parish Church

The Roman Catholic parish church of Saints Anthony the Hermit and Jerome is located in the center of the old town. First mentioned in documents in 1193, it has been rebuilt several times over the centuries. The current neoclassical building dates back to the 18th century. Particularly noteworthy is the so-called Gruber organ, on which Franz Xaver Gruber, the composer of “Silent Night, Holy Night”, played. The church is a listed building and is an important testimony to Hallein’s religious and musical history.

(Franz-Xaver-Gruber-Platz 2, 5400 Hallein)

Silent Night Museum Hallein

The Silent Night Museum is located in the former home of Franz Xaver Gruber, the composer of the world-famous Christmas carol. Gruber lived and worked here for 28 years. The museum presents original furniture, personal items and provides information about the creation and distribution of “Silent Night, Holy Night”. It's located directly across from the parish church, where Gruber served as organist. To be honest, we didn't find the museum particularly exciting.

(Franz-Xaver-Gruber-Platz 1, 5400 Hallein)

Celtic Museum Hallein

The Celtic Museum Hallein is one of the most important museums for Celtic history in Europe. It displays finds from the Dürrnberg on an exhibition area of around 3,000 m², including the grave goods of a Celtic tribal leader with a chariot. The museum is located in the former office building of the saltworks at Pflegerplatz and offers a comprehensive insight into Celtic culture and the history of salt production.

(Celtic Museum Hallein, Pflegerplatz 5)

Hallein Salt Mines

The Hallein Salt Mines are located just outside the city on the Dürrnberg, are among the oldest show mines in the world, and are among the most popular tourist destinations in the Salzburg region. The Celts already exploited the underground salt deposits over 2,500 years ago, upon which the region's entire wealth was based. Visitors ride deep into the mountain on the mine train, experience spectacular miners' slides, underground tunnels, and a raft ride across a mystically illuminated salt lake. The experience is both informative and entertaining – especially suitable for families. Another small highlight is the international border in the tunnel: a short walk leads from Austria to Bavaria. The Salt Mines are located just outside the city center, but are easily accessible by car or bus. Those who wish can combine their visit with the nearby Celtic village on the Dürrnberg.

(Ramsaustraße 3, 5422 Bad Dürrnberg)

Leisure activities and nature experiences

Hallein offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. The Knappensteig, a historic miners' footpath, leads from the town to the Dürrnberg and offers insights into the history of salt mining.

The Keltenblitz summer toboggan run is a highlight for families. In winter, the Zinken lifts invite you to go skiing and snow tubing.

Culinary and brewing art

The Hofbräu Kaltenhausen, founded in 1475, is the oldest brewery in Austria. Various beers and regional specialties are served in the historic Bräustübl.

(Salzburger Straße 67, 5400 Hallein)