Austria is a fascinating country with a rich history, culture and stunning sights. But a trip there would be even more interesting if you knew some surprising facts about Austria that Kidpassage recommends the whole family read. What is so special about the birthplace of great composers? Let's find out!
1 The Austrian national flag is one of the oldest flags in Europe, along with the flag of Denmark
The flag of Austria is a white stripe on a scarlet background. Legend has it that in 1191, during a battle against the Sultan of Zaladin in the Promised Land, Duke Leopold V of Babenberg splashed blood on his snow-white tunic. When he removed his belt, a white stripe remained on a red background — hence the colours of the Austrian flag. The modern interpretation of the flag's colours is slightly different: the red represents the blood of all the soldiers who gave their lives for the country's independence, and the white represents the Danube, which flows from west to east.
2. The country is home to Europe's highest cascading waterfall, the Krimml (380 m)
The cascade of three mighty waterfalls in the Hohe Tauern National Park is one of Austria's most visited natural attractions today. The volume of water falling is impressive: between five and sixty cubic metres, depending on the season (Krimml is at its fullest in June and July). The Alpine mountain enhances the natural beauty of the area ranges that cover much of the country.
3. In Austria you can visit the largest ice cave in the world, the Eisriesenwelt
About 40km south of Salzburg, the Hochkogel is home to a natural wonder. The largest ice cave in the world is astonishingly large: it is 42 kilometres long and 407 metres deep, and the volume of ice accumulating on its walls and vaults exceeds 30,000 cubic metres. The popularity of this natural masterpiece is staggering: every year, it attracts around 200,000 tourists worldwide. If you want to see the cave with your own eyes, Eisriesenwelt is open every year from 1 May to 26 October.
4. Austria is home to the popular actor and former governor of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger
All fans of the star can visit his home village of Thal, near Graz. It is where the Terminator spent his childhood and youth. The villagers are so proud of this fact that they recently opened a museum dedicated to Arnold. The museum is Arnold's old home, and some rooms are full of memorabilia (movies, bodybuilding, personal life), while others are decorated the way they were when Arnold lived there.
Austria's bread culture at a high level
Another interesting fact about Austria is that not everyone knows. Bread is eaten everywhere in this country. You can find bakeries and bakeries with the smell of freshly baked goods on every corner. The locals' favourite is homemade bread, made from wheat and rye, often with caraway and sunflower seeds. It must be said that the pastries in this country are delicious and always fresh.
6. Austria is home to the oldest Ferris wheel in the world
For lovers of old-fashioned and rarer things, a ride on the Ferris wheel is a real treat. Although it is 65 metres high, tourists still get an adrenaline rush. The Giant Ferris Wheel is located in the Austrian capital, Vienna's Prater Park. "Only those who have seen Vienna from the Giant Ferris Wheel can say they know it," reads the advertisement above the entrance.
7. Austrian children learn to ski before they can walk
As Austria is the most mountainous country in the world (62% of the country is made up of the famous Alps), there are great opportunities for skiing. Austria has the third-largest number of ski lifts in the world! Ask any Austrian what they like to do in their spare time, and the answer will be skiing. It's not uncommon to find a toddler with a pacifier in their mouth at the ski lifts in Austria — not quite sure how to walk but already firmly on their skis. We couldn't agree more: there's no better place to ski for kids!
8. The Stiftskeller St. Peter in Salzburg is the oldest restaurant in all of Europe, and maybe even the world
How about dining in Europe's oldest restaurant? Then visit one of Salzburg's landmarks, the Abbey of St Peter, which houses the St Peter Cellar. Austria's oldest restaurant and hotel complex is still in operation today. It's hard to believe, but the first mention of a Benedictine monastery tavern in the annals dates back to 803! It celebrated its 1200th anniversary in 2013. Another interesting fact is that the restaurant has always continued to operate since its foundation. No catastrophes or disasters have been able to stop the operation of this beautiful establishment.
9. Mozart is the most popular character in Austria
Museum staff dress up in costumes, put on make-up and wigs, and try to convey the atmosphere of the time the genius composer lived and worked. Every museum has exhibitions dedicated to Mozart, and in every city tourists visit, Mozart chocolates, cups, plates and other souvenirs bearing his image are sold. Many cafés play musical compositions by the genius (his works can even be heard in Vienna's central lavatory). Apart from Mozart, Austria is no less respectful of Princess Sissi and Maria Theresa.
As you can see, Austria never ceases to amaze with its exciting history, centuries-old traditions and modern life. It is a country you will want to visit repeatedly, discovering something new each time. So, if our facts have piqued your interest, why choose Austria's best resorts from our collection and start planning your trip? It's guaranteed to be unforgettable, we know!
