State of Carinthia

Introduction

Carinthia (Kärnten) is Austria's southernmost federal state, distinguished by its magnificent Alpine landscape and unique cultural blend influenced by its location at the intersection of Austrian, Italian, and Slovenian cultures. The state capital is Klagenfurt, with Villach being the second-largest city.

Geography and Landscape

Carinthia covers approximately 9,536 square kilometers and is almost entirely mountainous, except for the Klagenfurt Basin which comprises about one-fifth of the state's area. The region boasts over 1,200 lakes, with Wörthersee being the largest at 19.4 square kilometers. The state is home to Austria's highest mountain, Großglockner, standing at 3,798 meters.

Natural Features

The region's main waterway is the Drava River, along with its tributaries: the Gurk, Glan, Lavant, and Gail. The High Tauern National Park, Austria's largest national park, partially lies within Carinthia's borders, showcasing the region's rich biodiversity with over 15,000 species.

Culinary Heritage

Carinthian cuisine represents a unique fusion of three culinary traditions: Austrian, Italian, and Slovenian. The region is particularly renowned for:

Regional Specialties

• Käsnudel: Traditional pasta pockets filled with curd cheese
• Lavant Valley asparagus: Hand-cut seasonal delicacy
• Gurktaler Luftgeselchter Speck: Special air-dried bacon from Gurktal
• Jauntaler salami: Pure pork sausage with distinctive taste
• Kärntna Låxn: Traditional brown trout dating back to the 14th century

Local Products

• Honey: Famous for various types including wild honey, floral honey, and alpine rose honey
• Game meat: Particularly venison from the Metznitz Valley

Cultural Features

The region's unique position at the crossroads of three cultures has created a rich cultural tapestry, evident in its cuisine, traditions, and local customs. This cultural diversity is celebrated through various festivals and events throughout the year.

Attractions

Hochosterwitz Castle

Perched atop a striking 172-metre dolomite rock, Hochosterwitz Castle is one of the nation's most remarkable medieval fortresses, offering breathtaking panoramic views visible from up to 30 kilometres away. The castle's most distinctive feature is its series of 14 ingeniously designed defensive gates, which visitors can explore whilst ascending to the summit, though a modern inclined railway (the Fürst-Max-Bahn) offers a quicker alternative. The fortress, which has remained unconquered throughout its history, boasts a fascinating museum housing weapons, armour and Renaissance paintings, whilst its most intriguing legend tells of a clever ruse where defenders threw a grain-filled ox carcass over the walls to deceive besieging forces into believing they had abundant provisions. Still owned by the noble Khevenhüller family after 470 years, the castle complex includes a restaurant serving traditional Carinthian cuisine, a forge demonstrating medieval crafts, and lovely walled gardens with fragrant roses. The castle was remarkably self-sufficient during medieval times, featuring its own carpentry workshop, mill, blacksmith, bakery, and even a printing press.

Klagenfurt

Klagenfurt, Austria's southernmost provincial capital, is a charming Renaissance city situated on the eastern shore of Lake Wörthersee, where three distinct cultures - Carinthian, Italian, and Slovenian - harmoniously blend. The city's fascinating history began with a legendary tale of brave men slaying a fearsome dragon, commemorated today by the iconic 9-tonne Dragon Fountain (Lindwurmbrunnen) in Neuer Platz. After a devastating fire in 1514, the city was gifted to the Carinthian Provincial Estates, who transformed it into Austria's only ideal Renaissance city. Today, visitors can explore the picturesque old town with its Italian-influenced architecture, visit the Museum of Modern Art, or enjoy water activities at Lake Wörthersee. The city is also home to Minimundus, a fascinating miniature park featuring models of famous global landmarks, whilst the local cuisine offers a delightful fusion of Alpine and Adriatic flavours, including specialities such as 'Kasnudeln' (cheese-filled noodles).

Other attractions

Gurk
Landskron Castle (ruins)
Villach