10 interesting facts about Austria

Here at Leger Holidays we love an Alpine escape, in fact our very first tour was to Austria back in 1983, and it’s still one of our top holiday destinations! So what is it that makes you all so interested in Austria? Whether you’re researching for your next holiday or simply want to brush up on a few facts, we’ve compiled a list…

  • The name Austria derives from a Germanic word ‘austro’ which means ‘east’.
  • The Austrian flag is one of the oldest national flags in the world.
  • The sewing machine was invented by Austrian Josef Madersperger.
  • Approximately one quarter of the population of Austria lives in Vienna.
  • Vienna has the oldest zoo in the world which was founded in 1752.
  • Austria is known for its mountain railways and trains such as the Giselabahn.
  • Ferdinand Porsche, the founder of the German sports car company ‘Porsche’, was from Austria.
  • Former Hollywood actor Arnold Schwarzenegger grew up in Austria.
  • 62% of Austria is covered by the Austrian Alps.
  • The first postcards used were in Austria.

Do you know any more interesting facts about Austria? Or have any stories of your trips to Austria? Please share them in the comments section below.

15 Replies to “10 interesting facts about Austria”

  1. The town of Worgl near to the Hotel Sonnschien is where the Austrian former Formula 1 racing driver Gerhard Berger hails from

  2. Austrian Tyrol is really breathtaking when you are up on a mountain looking down through the clouds,with snow behind you and sun in your face.

  3. Thank you so much for the info It really helped for my History report on Austria its really and amazing country that no one gives credit for I hope people now appreciate Austria more!

  4. The flag of Austria has three equal horizontal bands of red, white, and red. The Austrian triband is based on the coat of arms of the Babenberg dynasty, recorded in the 13th century.

  5. Just have a minor correction: “Austro” isn’t Germanic, it’s Latin. The origin of the name is German, but it was Latinised by the English when translating the German name “Österreich” (meaning Eastern Realm or Kingdom) into “Austria”.

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