Silver mine
The Pölstal is full of treasures. Silver was mined in the Upper Pölstal, in Oberzeiring, as early as around 1000 BC - which has been proven by important historical finds. In the 13th century, the Zeiring mine was in its heyday and was the largest silver mine in Styria; even its own coin, the "Zeyringer Pfennig", was allowed to be minted here.
Mining at this time was extremely arduous. The crawl tunnels were never higher than 1.20 metres. Unfortunately, the mine came to an abrupt end when it was flooded in 1361 - no miner survived the disaster. Attempts were made again and again to dry out the tunnel and get at the silver. Iron ore and more than 45 other minerals were also found in the mine. Among them is the unique zeiringite, which you won't find anywhere else! In 1958, a small part of the 80-kilometre-long silver mine was opened as a show gallery with a museum. The impressive mine has been renovated and expanded again and again and was awarded the Austrian Museum Quality Seal in 2018. Here you can live with history! There are still many traces of the manual mining of silver. On a 60-minute guided tour you will discover the secrets of the mine in an impressive way.
Former mine - today a health resort
Today, however, the mine has a completely different meaning and can have an incredibly positive effect on the respiratory system. Today, the mine contains a natural healing gallery for spa purposes, where internationally recognised healing successes are achieved with regard to respiratory diseases. The successes are based on the unique air composition of the silver tunnel. The temperature is a constant 8°C in both summer and winter, with humidity levels of up to 98%. The air in the gallery is therefore free of dust and allergens. The content of calcium ions and carbonic acid is increased.
Patients can relax on comfortable health loungers on the therapy floor and receive the best care from experienced therapists. The Heilstollen can be reached directly from the health resort via a lift. After just a few days, a positive effect on the respiratory tract is noticeable, sleep disorders are reduced and medication doses can be reduced. Use this time to recover - in a place that is full of history.
Walk to the castle
At the end of the 15th century, Hanfelden Castle was built by a toll collector in Unterzeiring. Over the years, the Rennaissanceschloss has been altered only very sparingly and therefore proves to be a stroke of luck for historians in Styria and Austria. Much here is reminiscent of times long past and tells of how life used to be. Little by little, the castle walls are being carefully restored. Combine a walk across the green fields and meadows with a visit to this place steeped in history.
Fit and healthy
The Pölstal offers more than just cultural experiences. Here you can also let off steam in the great outdoors in summer. Explore the extensive hiking area and discover the green landscape. Enjoy the natural swimming fun in winter at the Pölstal children's ski lift or take your first turns and ski courses at the Murtal ski area.