Eisenstadt, Austria

Since 1978, the city of Bad Kissingen has maintained a friendly town partnership with the capital of Burgenland, which is located near Lake Neusiedl.

History

The city of Eisenstadt, a partner city since 1978, has been the capital of Burgenland since 1925 and has a population of about 13,500. The city was first mentioned in records dating from 1118, and it was called "Eysenstadt" (Iron City) for the first time in 1373 because of its strong fortification. A castle was built in the same year, which in 1648 became the property of the aristocratic Esterházy family.

The impressive image of today's city center dates back to the second half of the 17th century, when it was a flourishing civilization, reflected in the design of the two and three-story houses with their late-Gothic vaults and baroque façades. Medieval elements such as parts of the city wall and the Pulverturm are harmoniously integrated into the cityscape.

The Hungarian Burgenland was divided after the First World War on the basis of a referendum. The predominantly German-speaking part was granted to Austria, while the rest remained with Hungary. Since the old capital city (Sopron) lies in the Hungarian part of the Burgenland, Eisenstadt became the state capital in 1925.

Geography and climate

Located on the southern slope of the Leitha Mountains, Eisenstadt is the smallest capital in Austria with its 13,500 inhabitants. It is surrounded by numerous vineyards that flourish in the mild Pannonian climate, on the edge of the Hungarian lowlands.

Culture

Joseph Haydn

The composer Haydn is omnipresent in Eisenstadt. The Haydnmuseum in the Haydngasse is housed in the Haydnhäuschen, his home. The musical highlight each year is the Haydn Festival held in September with concerts in the Haydn Hall and other venues. Throughout the year, though, there are concerts in the Esterházy Palace, and the Haydn Quartet plays morning concerts in historical costumes. Haydn worked for over 40 years as Kapellmeister, music director, at Esterházy's court.

Wine and food

Since 2011, Wine and Gourmet Days have been taking place every year in the pedestrian zone. For a short week, stands offer a range of culinary delicacies. A team from the city partnership committee is regularly present with an excellent selection of Franconian specialties.

Museums of the city

Esterházy museum (in the castle)
Burgenland regional galery
Burgenland regional museum
Austrian Jewish museum
Diocesan museum
Fire department museum

Distances

Eisenstadt to Vienna: 50 km
Eisenstadt to Bratislava (Preßburg): 50 km
Eisenstadt to Sopron (Ödenburg): 20 km
Eisenstadt to Budapest: 220 km
Eisenstadt to Bad Kissingen: 700 km

Structural features

State capital of Burgenland
Tourist city (15 km from Lake Neusiedl): Joseph Haydn's activity center
Cultural center of the Burgenland: Haydn festival, Esterhazy Castle
Cultural exchange (concerts, exhibitions)
Medium-sized companies

Industry

Technology Center ISO-Sport (Austria's largest manufacturer of ski clothing)

More information
http://www.eisenstadt.gv.at/