Retz

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Retz: Historic Weinviertel town with windmill, adventure cellar and panoramic views

Retz, a town in the Weinviertel region of Lower Austria, offers a variety of historical sights and cultural experiences. Known for its expansive main square, Austria's only working windmill, and its impressive underground labyrinth of cellars, Retz is a worthwhile destination for culture and wine lovers.

Short info:

Where is Retz? In the Weinviertel region of Lower Austria, near the Czech border
What is the Retzer Adventure Cellar? A 20 km long labyrinth of cellars under the city
What is special about the windmill? It is the only operational windmill in Austria
Is the town hall tower accessible? Yes, daily from 9am to 6pm, admission: €2
What can you see from the town hall tower? Panoramic view over the city, vineyards and the Retzer Land
Address for navigation? Hauptplatz 30, 2070 Retz

Retz Main Square: Center of the city

Retz's main square is one of the largest and most beautiful market squares in Austria. Surrounded by historic buildings such as the Sgraffitohaus and the Verderberhaus, it reflects the town's rich history. Beneath the square stretches a sprawling labyrinth of cellars, forming the Retzer Erlebniskeller (Retz Adventure Cellar).

The Retzer Erlebniskeller: An underground labyrinth

Beneath the town of Retz lies an impressive Network of wine cellars with a total length of over 20 kilometers. These cellars, some of which are on three levels, were originally used for wine storage. Today, visitors can explore this underground labyrinth on guided tours. The tours include a brief explanation of the main square and a wine tasting.

The Retz Windmill: A technical monument

Perched on a hill near the town is the Retz Windmill, the only completely preserved and operational windmill in Austria. Built in 1853, it was reopened in 2010 after extensive restoration. Visitors can tour the mill on guided tours and learn more about its history and operation.

The Town Hall and the Town Hall Tower: Historical Insights

Retz's town hall, a striking building on the main square, houses the 57-meter-high town hall tower. A spiral staircase with 128 steps leads to the tower room at a height of 30 meters, offering impressive views of the town and the surrounding area. The tower is open to visitors daily.

Other sights in Retz

Sgraffito House: A Renaissance building with impressive facade paintings from the 16th century.
Dominican Church and Monastery: Founded around 1300, the monastery now hosts cultural events.
Calvary: A baroque Way of the Cross with several stations and a crucifixion group, erected between 1727 and 1737.

events and festivals

Retz is known for its traditional festivals. Retz Wine Week takes place annually around Corpus Christi and offers wine tastings and cultural events. The Grape Harvest Festival on the last weekend of September celebrates the harvest season with parades, music, and regional specialties.

Arrival and mobility

Retz is well connected to the Northwest Railway network, with regular connections to Vienna and Znojmo. Many attractions within the town are within walking distance. For excursions in the surrounding area, cycling is recommended, especially along the picturesque vineyards.

Insider tip

For a special experience we recommend a Guided tour with the night watchman, who, dressed in historical costume, tells exciting stories and anecdotes from Retz's past. These tours take place regularly and offer a unique insight into the town's history.