Linz's Old Town | Linz

Linz's Old Town (Altstadt Linz) is the historical heart of the city, offering a rich blend of medieval and baroque architecture, picturesque squares, and narrow cobblestone streets. This area is the cultural and historical center of Linz, with several key landmarks, vibrant cafés, and cultural institutions that make it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Overview of Linz's Old Town

• Name: Linz Old Town (Altstadt Linz)
• Location: The Old Town is located in the center of Linz, on the banks of the Danube River. It is surrounded by modern areas but retains a charming, historic atmosphere.
• Historical Significance: The Old Town has been the city's cultural, commercial, and political center for centuries, dating back to the medieval period. It has seen significant architectural developments, from the medieval era to the Renaissance and Baroque periods.

Key Landmarks and Attractions

1. Hauptplatz (Main Square)

The Hauptplatz is the central square of Linz’s Old Town and is one of the largest public squares in Austria. It serves as the focal point for social life in the city and is surrounded by historical buildings, cafés, and shops.

• Key Features:
  • The Pestsäule (Plague Column): This baroque monument, located in the center of the square, was erected in the 17th century to commemorate the end of the plague that affected the city.
  • Town Hall (Rathaus): A historical building that now houses the administrative offices of the city. Its architecture is a mix of medieval and Renaissance styles.
  • Colorful Buildings: The square is lined with charming, brightly painted buildings, showcasing Baroque and Renaissance architectural styles.

2. Linz Castle (Schloss Linz)

Located on the hill above the Old Town, Linz Castle offers a commanding view of the city and the Danube River. The castle dates back to the medieval period and has been expanded and renovated over the centuries. Today, it houses the Linz Castle Museum, which displays exhibits on the city’s history, as well as temporary art exhibitions.

• Key Features:
  • Museum: The Linz Castle Museum is one of the most important historical museums in the region, with collections on local history, art, and medieval weaponry.
  • Viewpoint: The castle offers a stunning panoramic view of Linz, including the Old Town, the river, and the surrounding countryside.

3. St. Mary’s Cathedral (Mariendom)

St. Mary’s Cathedral, also known as the New Cathedral (Neuer Dom), is the largest church in Austria by volume. Though not as old as some of the other landmarks in the Old Town, it is a striking example of Gothic Revival architecture and an iconic symbol of Linz.

• Key Features:
  • Impressive Architecture: The cathedral features stunning stained-glass windows and a high spire, visible from various points in the city.
  • Interior: Inside, visitors can admire intricate altars, frescoes, and sculptures.
  • Location: Situated just a short walk from Hauptplatz, the cathedral is a central feature of the Old Town.

4. Alter Dom (Old Cathedral)

The Alter Dom is Linz's oldest church, dating back to the early 18th century. Its Baroque architecture and impressive interior make it one of the city’s most important religious sites. It is located near Hauptplatz and is well worth a visit for those interested in art and architecture.

• Key Features:
  • Baroque Architecture: The church features elegant Baroque details, including a grand altar and ornate decorations.
  • Concert Venue: The Alter Dom is also known for its organ concerts, as it houses one of the most famous organs in Austria.

5. Landstrasse (Shopping Street)

The Landstrasse is Linz’s main shopping street, stretching through the Old Town. It is lined with a variety of shops, boutiques, cafés, and restaurants, making it a lively hub of activity. The street’s architecture is a mixture of historic buildings and modern shops, offering visitors a blend of culture and contemporary shopping.

• Key Features:
  • Shopping: Landstrasse is the main commercial thoroughfare of the Old Town, ideal for those looking to browse local boutiques, fashion shops, and souvenir stores.
  • Cafés and Restaurants: Many of Linz's best cafés and restaurants can be found along this street, offering a chance to experience Austrian cuisine and enjoy local delicacies.

6. Brucknerhaus

The Brucknerhaus is a prominent concert hall and cultural venue located near the Old Town, named after the famous composer Anton Bruckner, who was born in the region. The venue hosts classical music performances, opera, and other cultural events.

• Key Features:
  • Concert Hall: Known for its excellent acoustics, the Brucknerhaus is a prime location for orchestras, opera performances, and other musical events.
  • Anton Bruckner: The hall is named after Anton Bruckner, a renowned composer of the 19th century, who has deep ties to Linz.

Cultural and Historic Significance

Linz’s Old Town is a treasure trove of history and culture. From medieval streets to Baroque squares, the area is steeped in the traditions of the city. Many of the buildings and landmarks in the Old Town reflect the city’s long-standing importance as a cultural, commercial, and religious center in Austria.

Art and Museums:

• The Lentos Art Museum, located near the Old Town, showcases contemporary art, while other smaller galleries and institutions contribute to the city's vibrant art scene.
• Linz Castle Museum offers insight into the city’s medieval past, and the Old Cathedral is home to numerous artworks from the Baroque period.

Historical Layers:

The Old Town reflects the various historical influences that have shaped Linz over the centuries:

• Medieval Linz: The narrow streets and structures such as the city walls and Linz Castle date back to the medieval period, offering a glimpse into the city's early history.
• Baroque Linz: The Hauptplatz and churches like the Alter Dom showcase the grandeur of Baroque architecture, a time when Linz experienced significant artistic and cultural development.
• Modern Linz: The area also features more recent additions, such as Lentos Art Museum and Brucknerhaus, which reflect the city’s ongoing evolution as a center of art, music, and culture.

Visitor Information

• Accessibility: The Old Town is easily walkable, with most attractions located within a short distance of each other. It is well-connected by public transport.
• Opening Hours: Most of the landmarks in the Old Town, including the churches and museums, have regular opening hours. However, some sites may have special hours or be closed on certain holidays.
• Guided Tours: Visitors can join walking tours of the Old Town to learn about the history and significance of the area from expert guides.

Conclusion

Linz's Old Town is a fascinating mix of history, art, and culture. Whether you’re exploring the medieval streets, admiring Baroque architecture, visiting museums, or simply enjoying the atmosphere of the Hauptplatz, the Old Town offers something for everyone. Its combination of historical landmarks, cultural venues, and lively shopping streets makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city.