Center stone in the spa park Bad Aussee

That Bad Aussee is allowed to carry the name “Center of Austria” is not merely the sentiment of those for whom the spa resort is a true heart of the region. This center was actually determined in 1949 during a competition organized by the newspaper “Große Österreich Illustrierte.” The task was to establish the actual geographical center of Austria. After investigations using various methods, the town from the Ausseerland region emerged as the true heart. Bad Aussee's right to its new title was officially confirmed by an expert opinion from the University of Vienna. The great joy was celebrated with a festival in the spa park in August 1949, featuring film star Maria Andergast.

After 40 years of establishing the “Center of Austria,” the brand of which is now legally protected, a stone monument was erected in the "Kurpark". Created by sculptor Erich Laufer, the memorial stone made of local Fludergraben marble has adorned the spa park, surrounded by chestnut trees in the heart of Bad Aussee, and is a special destination for many visitors with its interesting historical background.

As befits a true center, there is plenty to discover around the stone monument. Strolling through the picturesque "Kurpark", visitors can admire the impressive statue of Archduke Johann. The impressions can linger during a short rest on the benches under the park's trees while listening to the gentle murmur of the confluence of the rivers Altausseer and Grundlseertraun in the background. If one follows the soft rustling, they will reach the Mercedes Star Bridge, which connects the banks of the rivers in the spa park in a circular shape for pedestrians. This was built in 2005 on the occasion of the Styrian State Exhibition “Fools and Visionaries – with a Pinch of Salt” and symbolizes the geographical center of Austria.

Ideal for families and children, the children's playground in the Kurpark is located on the opposite bank and features several highlights such as a climbing wall, a hammock, and a slide. For relaxation and cooling off, the adjacent Kneipp facility offers invigorating moments with Kneipp treatments for the feet, arms, and knees. Visitors can enjoy moments of tranquility surrounded by the sounds of the water, wandering down to the waterfall.

Sated with impressions and thoroughly refreshed, a personal keepsake from the visit to the geographical center of Austria awaits on the third bank of the Mercedes Star Bridge. At the Tourist Office Bad Aussee, the official Center Certificate can be issued, keeping the memories of a unique day here in the heart of Austria for a long time. Don’t worry, the certificate can also be conveniently ordered from home through the online shop of the tourism association.