We love... Burgenland
Lying east of the Alps, the state is brimming with Mediterranean flair and has been blessed with an incredible natural environment. The sunshine and gentle wind which blows through the forests relax the soul, giving one a simpler outlook on life.
In 2021, the youngest state in Austria celebrated 100 years of belonging to the Republic. In some areas of Burgenland it feels as if time has stood still and nothing has changed. And that‘s in a positive way – it feels like entering a new world. With its Pannonian (Burgenland) charm, it is completely authentic and not boring in the slightest.
Over the centuries, Burgenland has undergone unparalleled development. What was once a poor area known for its agriculture has become a model region in many regards. It is not only society that has changed but also the townscapes and everyday life. All the more important not to forget the everyday culture and events that have had a lasting impact on the region. Local museums and theatres showcase its eventful history in order to share it with the next generation.
A history with highs and lows
At the end of the Second World War, a German-speaking minority lived in the far west of today‘s Hungary. This group was separated from Austria following the fall of the Habsburg Monarchy. In 1919 this area was separated from Hungary as the population felt a closer association with Austria. In 1921, popular votes, rebellions and discussions led to the integration of today‘s Burgenland into the Austrian Republic. The state capital should have been Sopron, but a popular vote decreed that the historical city should remain in Hungary. In 1925, Eisenstadt finally became the state capital of Burgenland, taking the title from Bad Sauerbrunn.
The name Burgenland refers to the four former administrative units – Pressburg, Wieselburg, Ödenburg and Eisenburg. Today, none of these regions is actually located in Burgenland, but the name was retained. During the course of history, Burgenland was the scene of major events. The large-scale emigration to America, the different ethnic groups and the period of the second World War and beyond shaped the region‘s history. The artificial border – the Iron Curtain – also divided society for a long time. When the Iron Curtain fell in 1989, the region was transformed from an area of division to an area of solidarity and unification.
Despite this solidarity, the memory of life in Burgenland during that time has not been lost. The buildings that have been re-erected true to their original, informative exhibits and sites steeped in history recall a Burgenland that many today cannot imagine. Both the joys of everyday life and the fears of the population during those times form an integral part of these exhibits. The fates of the people are highlighted to create an awareness of past events.
Charming and typically Pannonian
A particular highlight of Burgenland is living in a simple but highly aesthetic environment. Tasteful and well-maintained, it is a place for finding inner peace, feeling the originality of the landscape all around and taking the time to enjoy it all. This style of living is known as Pannonian living.
Living in the sunshine. From the carefully renovated Kellerstöckl and modernised estate through to the noble winery, throughout Burgenland you will find a variety of wonderful places to stay that will give you a real experience of the typical Pannonian way of life. Often concealed in vineyards surrounded by an idyllic landscape with Burgenland flair everywhere you look. Far removed from hectic, overcrowded towns and cities, here you‘ll experience a particularly relaxing holiday.
Where indulgence is at home
Where once workers would relax after a day in the vineyard, letting their eyes wander over the magnificent landscape, is now an oasis of relaxation. Over time and following modernisation, the Kellerstöckl became too small for the winemakers. Today, the picture-perfect buildings are experiencing a renaissance and are more appreciated than ever. The small romantic houses have been renovated with a huge amount of love and attention to detail and opened for guests. This loving transformation into cosy holiday homes allows visitors to enjoy a holiday right in the heart of this beautiful place.
As well as excellent wines, the region is known for its genuine hospitality. Whether it‘s a visit to a homely tavern, a guided wine-tasting experience with the winemakers themselves or a meal in a renowned restaurant, visitors to Southern Burgenland can be sure of getting their money‘s worth and being welcomed with open arms. Don‘t miss the opportunity to sample the famous Uhudler, a hearty cold platter or the region‘s other culinary specialities.
Today, in 2021, Burgenland is a model region within the European Union in many respects. The easternmost state in Austria is a prime example for renewable energies and economic development. Burgenland is a much-loved home, haven of tranquillity and sanctuary for many.
EDITOR'S TIPS
- Nature reserves: www.burgenland.info/erleben/natur-erleben/naturparke
- Tabor ruin: Untere Hautpstraße 7, Neusiedl am See (North Burgenland)
- Kobersdorf castle: Schlossgasse 3, Koberdorf (Middle Burgenland)
- Weinek‘s Kellerstöckl: Zeinerberg, 7522 Heiligenbrun
Two charming houses, one of which is a designated historic monument, in Heiligenbrunn and on the Kulmer Berg in Eberau. - Tschardaken: Frauenkirchner Straße 1, 7131 Halbturn
The wooden maize ‚Tschardaken‘ (huts) are typical of Halbturn and distinguish the landscape like no other area in Seewinkel. - Noric-Pannonian burial mounds: The Noric-Pannonian burial mounds in Bernstein are burial sites from the 1st and 2nd centuries and lie not far from the Planetenwanderweg. (South Burgenland).
More informationen about Burgenland: www.burgenland.info