The best city hikes and walks around Hartberg

The Sparkassabrücke in Hartberg is a really beautiful piece of history, right in the middle of our lovely old town. It used to be part of the old defensive structure, the Wehrgang, and connects the old town directly with the area by the Sparkasse. The bridge is an important component of the medieval city wall, where you can really feel what it was like back then. Right by the bridge is the Sparkassen-Parkdeck in Alleegasse – a great starting point if you want to explore the city. From there, you can stroll comfortably through the alleys and discover the many exciting corners that make Hartberg so special. For anyone who likes to hike and is interested in history, the Sparkassabrücke is a real highlight.

Right by the town pond in Hartberg stands the Schölbinger Turm, a true Styrian jewel and one of the last witnesses to the defensive past of our beautiful town. It used to be part of the old town boundary and served as a defensive wall, so that no enemy could easily penetrate the small town. Today, the tower invites all hiking enthusiasts and history buffs to marvel. All around there are pleasant walking paths where you can enjoy the fresh air and the view of the pond. The Schölbinger Turm is truly a fascinating place that shows how hard the people of Hartberg defended their home in the past. A must-stop for everyone who likes to hike and wants to feel a bit of history!

In the heart of Hartberg stands a very special Marian column, the Immaculata, also known as the Frauensäule. It was designed by the gifted sculptor Christoph Hofstetter in 1675, a true Styrian work of art. It was donated by the proprietress Marie Grifin von Paar together with her daughter and son-in-law as a deeply felt expression of gratitude to the Holy Mary. The occasion was not just any, but the averting of the great Turkish danger that threatened our country at that time. In 1664, in the Battle of Mogersdorf, or Fehring, a significant blow was dealt to the Turkish armies. 150 wounded imperial soldiers were brought to Hartberg for care, a sign of solidarity and faith. The Immaculata with her 12-star wreath still looks down on the city today; this wreath of stars is even considered a model for the 12-star symbol of the European Union. Not only an artistic masterpiece, but also a spiritual symbol of the highest order. The elevated Madonna represents the plea for the maternal protection of heaven over our homeland. She reminds us to trust with confidence and humility in the intercession of the Mother of God. In times of danger and need, she is our Frauensäule, standing firm in faith and giving us strength. Thus, we live our Catholic faith with heart and love for our homeland, with the Immaculata as the eternal guardian of Hartberg.

I like the column. But even more the park around it. Beautifully landscaped with some resting places, a small waterfall, and other sculptures.

A beautiful pond with resting places, statues and lots of greenery. The idea with the pictures is interesting. On the one hand, you have to somehow get used to pictures in the water, where you actually expect ducks or nature. On the other hand, why not. Art is allowed :)

Here you will find one of the artfully decorated houses, of which there are several in Hartberg. Looks good.

Here you will find a sheltered spot for a break.

Excavation work will be carried out here in March 2026 - hopefully completed by summer, so that Hartberg will be presentable again.