1100 years of eventful history have left manifold traces in the second largest city of Styria, which is also considered the "Gateway to the Styrian Iron Road". History is omnipresent in Leoben.
A walk through the old town is therefore like a journey through the centuries. Starting at the 13th century main square, the most beautiful "living room" in Styria, you embark on a journey to monuments of a glorious past and architectural treasures.
Ring walls, city gates, four corner fortifications and a few wall towers formed the fortification of the city in the Middle Ages and early modern times, which fell victim to modernization in the 19th century, except for a corner tower and a gate tower as well as small remains of walls.
The elongated main square has been the heart of Leoben since its settlement in the 13th century. Today, the main square, which was redesigned in 1997, is free of traffic, invites you to stroll and linger and is one of the most beautiful squares in Austria.
In 1717, the citizens of Leoben erected the Trinity Column (Plague Column) on the main square in gratitude for the extinction of the plague. The sculptural decoration of the column was created by Johann Jakob Schoby. At the northern end of the square is the Angel Fountain (1794), above the basin of which rises the classicist sculpture of an angel holding a shield with the Leoben city coat of arms. At the southern end of the square stands the Miner's Fountain (1799) with the depiction of a miner in traditional costume.
The main square is ideal as a backdrop for major events and offers a wonderful oasis of relaxation with its many pub gardens.