Magnificent Melk Abbey in Lower Austria
Melk, Lower Austria
City hall square in St. Poelten
St. Pölten
Capital of Lower Austria
St. Poelten, the youngest of Austria’s capitals, combines a Baroque city centre with modern architecture like no other Austrian city.
City view of St. Poelten
St. Poelten
St. Poelten, the youngest of Austria’s capitals, combines a Baroque city centre with modern architecture like no other Austrian city. Stroll through the enchanting Old Town in the morning, and then head over to the fascinating contemporary government district for a striking contrast in architectural styles.
Lower Austria’s capital is the oldest documented city in Austria. The city charter, which was granted in 1159, even makes it one of the oldest cities in all of Europe. The historic city centre goes back mainly to St. Poelten’s golden era during the 17th and 18th century, when its Baroque splendour rivalled that of Vienna. Numerous magnificent buildings by the renowned architect Jakob Prandtauer, who also constructed the magnificent Melk Abbey, still exist today.
The sometimes monumental architecture of the culture district offers something for contemporary design enthusiasts to marvel at as well. The futuristic festival hall is just one example. Also of note are the modern state museum designed by Hans Hollein, the state library and archive.
Geographically, Lower Austria’s capital is perfectly located for day-trips to the picturesque Wachau Valley, the splendid Melk Abbey, and Austria’s capital Vienna. With the train station located right in the city centre, it is only a short trip away.
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