Schärding

Schärding, a captivating Baroque town in Upper Austria, invites visitors to step into a compelling past. Situated on the right bank of the Inn River, which forms a natural border with Bavaria, Germany, Schärding has long been a significant trading hub. Its appealing Altstadt (old town) is a collection of carefully preserved Baroque townhouses, their facades a riot of color that once served a very practical purpose.

Beyond its picturesque appearance, Schärding offers a blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty. Stroll along the riverfront, explore ancient fortifications, and discover quiet alleyways that speak of centuries gone by. The town's lively promenades, squares, and parks create an engaging atmosphere, yet quiet corners and delightful scenery are never far away.

Whether you're drawn to its unique architectural heritage, its strategic position on the Inn River, or simply the allure of a small Austrian town full of character, Schärding promises a memorable experience.

## From Roman Outpost to Baroque Town Schärding's story stretches back to the Neolithic period, with evidence of human habitation predating Roman influence. Around 15 B.C., the Romans advanced to the Danube, incorporating the Innviertel region, including what would become Schärding, into the Roman province of Noricum. The area was then populated by Celts.

The town, originally an agricultural settlement known as "Scardinga," was first mentioned in a Passau document in 804 or 806. By the 10th century, it had become the town center for the Counts of Formbach-Neuburg, strategically leveraging its castle rock and proximity to the Inn River.

Control of Schärding shifted through powerful hands: the Counts of Andechs ruled from 1160, followed by the Wittelsbach dynasty from 1248. Its location on the Inn River proved invaluable, transforming Schärding into a bustling center for trade. Goods like salt, timber, ores, wine, silk, glass, grain, textiles, and livestock flowed through its port, leading to the granting of market rights by the end of the 13th century.

## Fortifications, Plagues, and Shifting Borders Between 1429 and 1436, Duke Ludwig the Gebarteten oversaw the construction of significant city fortifications, including the outer castle gate, moat, Linz and Passau Gates, and the Water Gate. However, the town also faced hardship. The Thirty Years' War brought devastating outbreaks of the plague, particularly in 1628, 1634, 1645, 1647, and 1651, leading to the erection of a plague pole to commemorate the end of the epidemic.

Schärding's allegiance changed several times throughout history. While historically owned by the Wittelsbach family, it passed to Austria in 1779 with the Peace of Teschen, along with the Innviertel region, and has remained part of Austria with only brief interruptions. The town's architecture still reflects its Bavarian Wittelsbach heritage.

## A Baroque Rebirth Devastating fires in 1724 and 1775 almost completely destroyed the ducal castle, which once stood proudly by the Inn. However, the town's resilience led to a Baroque reconstruction that defines much of its appeal today. The central square, with its rows of colorful, gabled buildings known as the Silberzeile, is a prime example of this Baroque transformation. These facades, once color-coded for illiterate residents to identify businesses, now stand as a testament to Schärding's unique history and aesthetic appeal.

Begin your exploration in Schärding's historic Stadtplatz, the main square, dominated by the Silberzeile (Silver Row). These Baroque merchant houses, with their distinctive gabled roofs and appealing facades, are an architectural highlight. Look closely, and you might imagine a time when their colors indicated the trade within.

At the heart of the square, the Christopher Fountain features a statue of St. Christopher, the patron saint of travelers. Nearby, the Schärding Town Hall (Rathaus), once notably painted yellow, stands as a civic landmark.

Walk towards the Inn River to discover the remnants of the town's medieval fortifications. The Wassertor (Water Gate), also known as Inntor or Zollturm, still displays a fresco depicting a 1703 cannonade, and you can spot high-water marks from past floods. Other surviving gates include the Linz Gate (Linzer Tor) and the Passauer Gate (Passauertor).

For a tranquil escape, visit Schlosspark, a lovely green space overlooking the Inn River. This park was once the courtyard of the ducal castle and now features a deep granite well. Adjacent to the park, the Orangery Baroque Garden offers a beautiful setting, now home to a restaurant.

Do not miss the Catholic Parish Church of St. George (Die Stadtpfarrkirche St. Georg), which rises above the town's skyline and holds historical significance. For a deeper dive into local history, the Town Museum is housed in the Schlosstor, formerly the ducal castle warden's home.

The best time to visit Schärding is from May through September, when the weather is generally mild and pleasant for exploring the town and its surroundings. During these months, you will find an active cultural calendar, markets, and festivals. For fewer crowds and potentially better value, consider the quieter months of November to February, which offer cooler temperatures and a chance for snow, creating a peaceful atmosphere by the Inn River. Early autumn (mid-September through October) also offers pleasant weather with fewer tourists.

Schärding is easily accessible by train, with Schärding Station serving as a key hub for connections between Linz and Passau. If arriving by air, Munich Airport (MUC) and Linz Airport (LNZ) are the most convenient, with Munich having more connections and Linz being closer. Both are accessible by car, bus, and train.

Once in Schärding, the town center is easily explored on foot, with many attractions within walking distance. For exploring the surrounding area, train services are available, and rideshare services can also be found for local trips beyond the train network. Consider a boat trip on the Inn River for a unique perspective of the town and nearby sights.

Schärding offers a variety of dining options, including Italian and European cuisine. For those interested in local beverages, the Baumgartner Brewery offers guided tours and tastings.