All about Austria
One of the most beautiful countries in Europe, Austria has fascinating history and boasts incredible buildings and stunning alpine views. It is famous for many things, from its capital city Vienna to being the birthplace of several historic composers and being the beautiful backdrop on our small and big screens.
Every year, tourists from across the world travel to see the popular attractions and natural beauty Austria has to offer. But how much do you know about Austria?
Here, BBC Bitesize takes a closer look at some fun and interesting facts about Austria and its history. You can find out more below.
1. It is a landlocked country
There are many fun and interesting facts about Austria – and the first on our list is that it is landlocked. But what does landlocked mean?
A landlocked country is one that is completely surrounded by other countries – meaning it has no coastline, as it has no access to a sea or an ocean. Many countries in Europe are landlocked, but when it comes to Austria, it is bordered by eight countries – Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
2. The birthplace of famous composers
As mentioned earlier, Austria is the birthplace of many famous composers, whose work has been studied and enjoyed through history. One of the country’s most famous sons is Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, who wrote everything from symphonies to operas and more.
Other famous composers include Johann Strauss II, who was known as ‘The Waltz King,’ for composing Viennese waltzes. Outside of music, Austria is also the birthplace for many other famous names – founder of psychoanalysis Sigmund Freud, Hollywood actor Arnold Schwarzenegger and one of the country’s most infamous former citizens, Adolf Hitler.
3. The Sound of Music was filmed there
One of the biggest musicals of all time, The Sound of Music is based on the memoir of Maria von Trapp and tells the story of Maria, who is a governess of a large family and undecided about becoming a nun. Set in 1938, the film, released in 1965, stars Julie Andrews.
But if you’ve ever wondered where the beautiful backdrop of the film is – it's Austria. Primarily filmed in Salzburg, generations of tourists every year still visit some of the film locations, such as the Mirabell Palace and Gardens.
4. A lot of the country is alpine
A large mountain range in the middle of Europe, The Alps are spread out over eight countries - France, Monaco, Italy, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, Germany and Slovenia. Loved by tourists, thousands head to different parts of The Alps every year to do everything from sightseeing to skiing, snowboarding and more.
When it comes to Austria, a lot of the country is alpine, meaning a high percentage of its land area is covered by The Alps. No wonder it’s such a scenic, picturesque place to visit!
5. Its highest peak is 3798 metres
Staying on the topic of mountains – Austria is home to some of the most impressive in the world. But did you know its highest peak is a whopping 3798 metres?
That’s 12,461 feet! The highest peak in Austria is called Grossglockner and was first climbed back in 1800.
6. Home to the oldest restaurant in Europe
Austria is known not only for its beautiful cities and alpine views – but also its local cuisine. If you take a trip to Austria, expect to try everything from Wiener Schnitzel, a delicious, breaded veal, to Apfelstrudel dessert and more.
But did you know that Austria is also home to the oldest restaurant in Europe? Located in Salzburg, it is believed that St. Peter Stiftskulinarium has been operating since before AD 803.
7. It's also home to the oldest zoo in the world
Austria’s capital city is Vienna – and while there is plenty to see and do there, millions of tourists through the years to pay a visit to Schönbrunn Zoo. Also known simply as Vienna Zoo, the site was established back in 1752 and is the world’s oldest zoo still in operation.
As part of the Schönbrunn Palace – a grand palace and garden complex – it is within a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, the zoo is home to many animals, from penguins to koalas.
8. The world of ice giants
As you can tell from our list so far – Austria holds many titles, having the oldest restaurant in Europe and oldest zoo in the world among other things. But we’re letting you know of one more title the country holds, and that’s being home to the largest ice cave in the world.
Located in the Hochkogel Mountain near Werfen, Eisriesenwelt spans an impressive 26 miles. Its name translates as “the world of ice giants” and the cave was completely unknown until the end of the 19th century.
9. The snow globe was invented there
Extremely popular at Christmastime, many of us have a beautiful festive snow globe at home, or spot them in the shops and at the Christmas markets throughout December. Traditionally made of glass, inside the transparent globe usually depicts a place or a figure and when you tip it upside down or shake it, white or glittery particles depict snow – but you can have non-Christmas related ones too.
The snow globe was invented in Austria by Erwin Perzy, back in 1900. A surgical instruments mechanic, Perzy originally came up with the idea by accident when trying to improve the brightness of a bulb.
10.The indoor ski slope
We’re now at the end of our list of fun facts from Austria – but we have one more invention for you that strong ties to the loved country. And with its connection to The Alps, it’s obvious that it would have a link to skiing.
Although the first recorded indoor ski slope was in Berlin in 1927, it wasn’t long until one opened in the Austrian capital of Vienna. Opened that same year, it was one of the first centres to use an artificial mix of material with a likeness to snow, to take the sport indoors.
