Those who long for a quieter celebration of Christmas, without the hustle and bustle of shopping malls, tinsel and hectic schedules, should head to medieval Rattenberg, Austria’s smallest town.
Located on the banks of the Inn river, Rattenberg is tucked away between a 10th century fortress perched high on a hill above and the rushing waters of Tirol's largest river. The medieval centre of Austria’s smallest town is full of revitalised townhouses, cobbled streets and alleyways. There are no Christmas lights in Rattenberg. Instead, the lovely, historic pedestrian precinct is lit by candles, torches, and open fires on the four weekends of Advent to create a contemplative atmosphere embodying the true sense of Christmas.
Moreover, there are almost no traditional stalls and booths selling goods. It was the development of the glass industry that brought Rattenberg to the height of its prosperity. Rattenberg’s historic centre is dotted with specialist glass shops which are open during the Advent Season, selling their elaborate and unique glass art designs and original hand-blown creations. On Saturdays, Mary and Joseph's famous search for shelter is re-enacted in a procession of carol singers and historic characters. Don’t miss out on tasting the special Rattenberg advent wine, infused with elderberries and served in an original Rattenberg advent glass.
Free advent highlights in Rattenberg:
- Romantic advent walk: Fridays at 4:00pm (free; limited number of participants; please register in advance: info@alpachtal.at or +43 (0)5337 212 00 50)
- Performance of wind instruments and “Anklöpfler” (traditional procession): Fridays & Sundays from 17:00 until 19:00 and on 8 December from 15:00 until 18:00
- Cultural programme with traditional customs and music on stages throughout town: Saturdays at 14:30
- Advent shuttle: 02.12./09.12./16.12. from 14:30 until 18:00 connecting Rattenberg with the Christmas market in nearby Brixlegg
- Mary and Joseph's ‘search for shelter’ re-enacted: Saturdays at 16:30
- Harp music and reading of contemplative texts: Saturdays at 17:00 at the Augustiner Museum
- “Ave Maria” on the main stage: Saturdays at 18:00 on the Sparkassenplatz square
- Exhibition of carved nativity scenes at the Augustiner Museum: Friday to Sunday, 24.11. until 17.12., from 15:00 until 18:00 (€6 on Fridays & Sundays)
- Exhibition at the Augustiner Museum: Sundays and 8 December from 15:00 until 18:00 (€5 per person)
Located on the banks of the Inn river, Rattenberg is tucked away between a 10th century fortress perched high on a hill above and the rushing waters…
