Small historical town Judenburg
The Judenburg area was already inhabited in the Hallstatt period, around 800 BC. The Strettweg cult chariot, which was found during fieldwork in 1851, dates from this period. Today, the grave goods are considered the most important find from this period. A copy of it is on display in the Murtal Archaeological Museum in Judenburg and is explained in detail here.
This town was first mentioned as Mercatum Judinburch in 1074. At this time, Jewish merchants played an important role in the region. According to documents, Jews were active as money lenders in the 13th century. Judenburg had several special features at that time. This town had the oldest staple law in Austria. Merchants could stack, temporarily store and offer their goods here for a fee. An important pillar of the town was the iron trade, which still characterises the region today. Judenburg also had a monopoly on the trade in speik. This flower, also known as Alpine valerian, was used for the production of perfume. Even today, you can still buy products made from speik in Judenburg, such as soaps. Judenburg established its own currency. The Judenburger Gulden was long regarded as the most important gold coin in Austria. The minting block still exists. In the Judenburg Town Museum, visitors have the opportunity to mint their own personalised Judenburger Gulden and take it home with them as a souvenir.
You can explore the impressive history of the town in the town museum.
How did the town get its name?
How big was the town in the past?
What was life like here?
The detailed model of the city is a particular delight for young and old alike.
If you have any questions about the history of the town during your visit to Judenburg, don't hesitate to visit us in our office on the main square.