Traveling in Austria

Kufstein is the second largest city in the Austrian region of Tyrol, after Innsbruck. The name can be translated as Kufstein (die Kufe – slider and Stein – stone), but instead of sliding stones, your gaze will slide along the hilly peak in the city center, a 13-century-old fortress. It has become not only a symbol of the city, but also a museum storing the world’s largest open-air organ. The castle is erected at 507 m above sea level and can be reached by a glazed funicular enjoying wonderful views of the city.

The walk around the castle is no less picturesque and interesting. In the spacious stone rooms are stored medieval furniture, knightly robes, kitchen furniture and a spice garden. The palace also served as a prison for a long time, with the cells in the Kaiserturm Tower, as well as the entire fortress being turned into a historical museum. Undoubtedly, one of the most important exhibits is the largest outdoor organ, the Heldenorgel, which consists of 4,307 tubes.

After the castle it is worth a walk through the picturesque pedestrian cobbled streets with beautiful colorful houses. The central square is named Unterer Stadtplatz, and in the immediate vicinity is the church of St. Trinity, Dreifaltigkeitskirche. Also interesting is the toothy yellow building of the old town hall. Almost all the houses in the center are beautifully painted, giving a unique fairytale charm to the city.

Kufstein has managed to preserve its medieval appearance, turning a visit to the city into a wonderful walk through the past and culture of Tyrol.

GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT KUFSTEIN:

Location: Kufstein is located in western Austria, Tyrol region, on the banks of the Inn River. The city is located at almost equal distance from Innsbruck and Salzburg.
Area: 39.37 sq.km
Population: 18 726 people (2016 data)