Steinbach an der Steyr
Where culture and nature come together
Steinbach an der Steyr in 360° Alpenland
Where culture and nature come together.
Steinbach an der Steyr lies between steep conglomerate rocks and the clear course of the Steyr - a place that combines history and the present in a small space. Around 20 kilometres south of the town of Steyr, the market town nestles on the slope above the river and opens up views of a wide, almost canyon-like landscape.
Narrow alleyways, hanging gardens and stately town houses tell of the former prosperity of the Messerer trade, which characterised Steinbach in the 15th and 16th centuries. To this day, the Messerer Museum on the banks of the Steyr is a reminder of this artisan tradition.
Strolling through the historic town centre, you can feel the special atmosphere between the river, forest and the foothills of the Alps. Hiking and cycling trails lead out into the region around the Kalkalpen National Park, while the village itself surprises with art, a cot house and lively customs. In the pre-Christmas period, Steinbach is transformed into an idyllic Advent calendar village. Regional delicacies, rare old handicrafts and festive Advent concerts characterise Advent. A place with character - quiet, steeped in history and open to new perspectives.
Facts & Figures
History of Steinbach an der Steyr
Steinbach an der Steyr looks back on a long history - from the first traces of human settlement in the Neolithic period to the lively community in today's Upper Austria. Local and field names indicate a Slavic settlement in the early Middle Ages, followed later by Bavarian clearings and continuous development as a settlement area in the Steyr Valley.
Around 1120/1130, Steinbach is mentioned for the first time in the traditional code of the Garsten monastery; at the time, the village was the seat of the Knights of Steinbach. There was a small castle complex on or near the site of today's parish church. According to tradition, the first church, dedicated to St Bartholomew, was built from its stones.
Steinbach experienced its heyday in the late Middle Ages and early modern times thanks to the knife-making trade. The water power of the Steyr river drove hammers and grinders; knives and blades from Steinbach were traded as far as Venice. The prosperity from this long-distance trade earned the town the nickname "Golden Steinbach". Even today, town houses and the knife museum are reminders of this time, when crafts, trade and community characterised life.
Interesting facts about Steinbach an der Steyr in 360° Alpenland
The small town became prosperous in the 15th and 16th centuries thanks to the knife trade and became known as the "Venice of the Steyr Valley". The knife museum, workshops and historic houses still characterise the townscape today. Walking through the narrow alleyways, you can sense history - and at the same time a lively present with exhibitions, crafts and regional festivals in 360° Alpenland.
Yes, well-marked paths lead through forests, across meadows and up gentle mountain ranges. Whether a leisurely circular route or a longer tour towards the Kalkalpen National Park - Steinbach is the ideal starting point for hiking holidays in the Alps. The paths combine nature experiences with quiet resting places and wide views over the Steyrtal valley.
The Steinbach Advent transforms the village centre into an atmospheric stage with a nativity scene exhibition and Advent carol singing. The Schmankerlroas on the bank holidays brings regional producers and cider culture to the Hochgasse. There is also the Kirtag and cultural events in the old vicarage. Customs are not staged here, but lived.
The Steyr Valley offers ideal conditions for cycling holidays in Upper Austria. Family-friendly routes lead along the river, while ambitious cyclists choose the climbs into the surrounding countryside. The proximity to Steyr and the Kalkalpen National Park combines nature, exercise and short distances - an advantage of the 360° Alpenland.
The outdoor pool in the village, safe walking paths and short hikes make Steinbach a relaxing destination for families. Children discover nature on the banks of the Steyr, while adults enjoy the tranquillity of the countryside. Everything is close together - nature, culture and exercise intertwine.