Villach, Austria

Villach (Slovenian Beljak) is the second largest city in Carinthia in the south of Austria, on the river Drau (Slovenian Drave) . It currently has 57,646 inhabitants.

History

The oldest human traces found in Villach date back to 3500 BC. A lot of Roman artefacts were found there. Villach got its first mayor in the 16th century. In 1348 an earthquake destroyed a big part of Villach followed by another earthquake in 1690. There were also several fires in Villach which destroyed a lot of buildings. During the time of Napoleon's reign Villach was a part of France. It was reconquered in 1813.

Geography

In the surroundings of Villach there are several lakes:

• Lake Ossiacher or Ossiachersee
• Lake Faaker or Faaker See
• Lake Wörther or Wörthersee

Villach is also surrounded by the mountains of the Alps which are used for skiing in winter and hiking in summer. It is located half an hour by train or car from the border to Italy or Slovenia.

Festivals

There are several festivals throughout the year:

• the carnival in Villach (it starts on November 11 and ends on March 4)
• the arts and crafts festival (with self made goods)
• the streets-art festival (with performances of artist and singers)
• the church day
• performances at a stage along the Drave

Notable citizens

• Paul Watzlawick
• Bruno Gironcoli