Linz
Panoramic view of Linz, Austria.
Photo under GFDL. Linz in is the third largest Austrian city after Vienna and Graz. It is located 187km (116 miles) northwest of Vienna; 130km (81 miles) northeast of Salzburg; and 269km (167 miles) east of Munich. Linz is the biggest port on the Danube River, which is exceptionally wide here. Linz was settled by the Romans, who named it Lentia, in the 1st century AD. Thanks to its strategic position on the Danube, it became an important center for the trade by the Middle Ages.
Many notable figures have been connected with Linz: the composer Anton Bruckner was born there; Mozart dedicated a symphony to the city; Beethoven wrote his Eighth Symphony in Linz; and Goethe dedicated one of his works to "the beautiful girls of Linz." On the less fortunate side, the first railroad in Austria terminated in Linz, which, combined with the riverside position, led the city to become a major industrial center. After Hitler took Austria in 1938 he developed its industry even further, which in turn led to concentrated bombing by the Allies during World War II. The resulting damage took many years to repair.
Today, Linz has recovered and has become a significant cultural center. Linz is home to several religious sites of interest, including the oldest church in Austria: the Church of St. Martin, which dates from the 700s AD.
City Guide & Trip Planning
Linz Map
Our own detailed, interactive satellite map of Linz, plus links to more Linz maps. |
Linz Hotel Reviews
Unbiased reviews, ratings and price comparisons on hotels in Linz from fellow travelers. |
Linz Travel Forum
Practical travel advice and insider tips on Linz from those in the know. |
Linz Car Rentals
Book a rental car to pick up in Linz. |
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Sacred Sites & Religious Places
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Abbey of St. Florian (12 miles outside Linz)
The largest monastery in Upper Austria, St. Florian's Abbey is an impressive example of Baroque architecture and art. It stands over the tomb of St. Florian, patron saint against fire and flood. |
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Alter Dom (Old Cathedral) or Ignatiuskirche
Serving for several centuries as the cathedral of Linz (but no longer), this large Jesuit church was built in 1669-78. |
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St. Martin's Church
Dating from the 8th century, the Martinskirche in Linz is said to be the oldest church in Austria. |
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