Krems

Krems an der Donau, often called the eastern gateway to the Wachau Valley, offers a blend of ancient history and modern cultural vibrancy. This Austrian city, situated at the confluence of the Krems and Danube rivers, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its singular beauty and authentic cultural landscape. With a history stretching back over a thousand years, evidenced by its medieval architecture and stone pathways, Krems has long been a significant trading center.

The city's name, 'Krems,' is thought to derive from a Slavic word meaning 'flint' or 'stone,' possibly referencing the stony banks of the Krems river. It was first mentioned in a document from 995, making it the oldest city in Lower Austria. Krems has evolved into a flourishing economic, cultural, and educational hub, recognized for its wine production, which dates back to Roman times. Visitors can explore its historic center, art institutions, and numerous wine taverns, experiencing a city that harmoniously combines its storied past with a contemporary pulse.

From Prehistory to a UNESCO Heritage Site

The area around Krems shows evidence of human settlement dating back to the Paleolithic Age. The discovery of a child's grave, over 27,000 years old, marks it as the oldest known burial site in Austria. Even more ancient is the 'Venus of Galgenberg,' a female statuette from over 32,000 years ago, found near Krems-Rehberg, representing Austria's oldest known artwork.

Krems was first documented in 995 AD as 'Chremisa,' an imperial fortress, making it the oldest city in Lower Austria. In the 11th and 12th centuries, the settlement, then known as Chremis, rivaled Vienna in size. Chartered in the 12th century, Krems established a mint, producing some of Austria's earliest coins. The city, along with its adjacent town of Stein, formed a community in the 13th century and flourished as a center for trade and winemaking. Its strategic position at the confluence of the Krems and Danube rivers made it a vital hub for shipping and land transport, even surpassing Vienna in importance at one point.

Throughout the Middle Ages, Krems attracted numerous artists and artisans, contributing to its cultural development. The burgher merchants placed a high value on education, ensuring access to solid schooling and university studies for their children. The city's medieval fortifications, including the Steiner Gate, the Pulverturm (Powder Tower), and the Gozzoburg, still stand as testaments to its past. In 1645, during the Thirty Years' War, Swedish troops captured Krems, though it was recaptured by Imperial forces the following year.

Today, Krems an der Donau, including the historic centers of Krems and Stein, is part of the Wachau Cultural Landscape, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000, recognizing its architectural and agricultural heritage. The city continues its legacy as a prominent wine center, with vineyards cultivated since Roman times and wines like Grüner Veltliner and Riesling gaining international acclaim.

Begin your exploration at the Steiner Tor, the last remaining medieval city gate and a landmark of Krems. From there, wander along Landstrasse, the pedestrian zone, where historic buildings house shops and cafes. The Gozzoburg, a 13th-century civic building, showcases some of Central Europe's earliest known frescoes.

The Piarist Church (Piaristenkirche), also known as Kremser Frauenbergkirche, is considered the oldest church in Krems. Its late Gothic architecture is linked to Vienna's St. Stephen's Cathedral, earning it the nickname 'little sister of St. Stephen's.' Inside, admire the Baroque high altar and works by Austrian Baroque painter Martin Johann Schmidt, known as 'Kremser Schmidt.'

For art enthusiasts, the Kunstmeile Krems offers a collection of cultural institutions, including the Kunsthalle Krems, featuring 19th-century, modern, and contemporary art, and the Karikaturmuseum Krems, dedicated to caricatures and cartoons. The Landesgalerie Niederösterreich is another key part of the Kunstmeile. Do not miss the Sandgrube13, a wine museum and tasting room, to delve into the region's viticultural history. Just outside the city, the magnificent Göttweig Abbey, a Baroque Benedictine monastery, offers impressive views and insights into monastic life.

Krems offers distinct charms throughout the year. For pleasant weather and outdoor activities, the best time to visit is from mid-June to early September, with July being the warmest month, averaging 26°C (79°F). If you're drawn to natural beauty, consider spring (early to mid-April) to witness the apricot blossoms transform the Wachau Valley into hues of pink and white. Autumn (September and October) brings crisp air and golden foliage, ideal for hiking and experiencing the wine harvest, a significant event in this recognized wine region. The city also hosts the 'Alles Marille!' apricot festival in July, transforming the pedestrian zone into a celebration of all things apricot, with culinary delights and traditional festivities.

Krems is approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) west of Vienna, making it an ideal day trip or a longer stay. The city is well-connected by train, with its main railway station serving as a junction for lines to Vienna, St. Pölten, and other regional destinations. It's also accessible by major roadways. While generally safe, it's advisable to be aware in crowded areas like Hauptplatz, where pickpockets may operate. When exploring after dark, stick to well-lit streets. The historic center is walkable, with many attractions, cafes, and shops easily accessible on foot. Consider purchasing the Niederösterreich-CARD for discounted access to many attractions in Krems and throughout Lower Austria. For local cuisine, look for traditional Austrian restaurants and wine taverns. Do not miss the Wachauer Laberl, a local bread, and apricot-based delicacies like dumplings, strudel, and brandy.