Description of the attraction
Hallein is an Austrian city located in the federal state of Salzburg, in Tennengau, about 15 km south of Salzburg. The city is an important industrial center and the second largest city in the province of Salzburg.
Due to the special geological conditions, the salt springs in the area of present-day Hallein probably appeared around 2500 BC. By 600 BC. Celts began to trade in salt, inhabiting the local lands. In the 11th century, salt mining in Hallein became a decisive factor for the economic well-being of Salzburg.
The majority of the city's population was the Jewish community, which was more numerous here than in Salzburg. Over time, most of the Jews were expelled from Hallein.
During World War II, the Nazis built Dachau subsidiary camps in Hallein for 1,500-2,000 people. The camp mainly housed political prisoners who were forced to do a lot of physical labor in forced labor. After the end of World War II, Hallein remained in the American occupation zone until the mid-1950s.
Hallein is currently a modern industrial city with good infrastructure. The city has 18 schools, several technical schools, sports centers, theaters and museums. Various sports competitions are held annually.
The city got its modern look in the 18th century, when many buildings were rebuilt. The most famous landmark of the city is the Celtic Museum, which presents the history of salt mining back in the days of the Celts.
