The cityscape of the former border town of Fürstenfeld is characterized by impressive remnants of old fortifications. The Fortification Path Fürstenfeld takes you to these historically significant sites and offers an exciting insight into the history of the fortified town. The perfect starting point is the Pfeilburg Fürstenfeld with its museums dedicated to the city's and time history, the tobacco culture around Fürstenfeld, and special exhibitions.
Highlights along the Fortification Path
- Discover the former fortified town of Fürstenfeld
- Exciting journey into the past
- Medieval fortifications, mysterious bunkers of World War II
- Impressive videos and animations
- Over 130-year-old iron bridge: 18 meters above the ground
Fortification at the town of Fürstenfeld
Fürstenfeld was founded around 1170 by Margrave Ottokar IV as a sovereign city to secure the Imperial border to the east and as a trading town. The first documented mention dates back to the year 1178. At that time, the market was protected by walls and towers and nestled against the castle located high above the Feistritz River and the Johanniter Kommende. The Johanniters also held the parish rights to Altenmarkt and Übersbach and dominated the region on the Lafnitz border very early on. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the medieval city fortifications were expanded and supplemented by bastions.
In recent years, the fortifications of the town of Fürstenfeld have been restored and are now accessible via a fortification path. These can be experienced at 13 stations. At the same time, the work of the Johanniters in the areas of Fürstenfeld, Altenmarkt, and Übersbach is highlighted, and three historically significant church sites are linked by the knights' order Radl-Tour.
By the way: With your GenussCard, you receive a free guided tour!