The history of Fort Kniepass

From the medieval fortress to the modern fort

The eventful history of the former "Chniepoz" post on the border with Germany dates back to the 14th century - to a time when natural disasters, epidemics, wars and political upheavals shaped many parts of the world. After a period of decay, the old walls have now been "breathed back to life" as Fort Kniepass.

From the border post "Chniepoz"

to the shooting station for hunters & foresters

The narrow valley on the border with Germany was mentioned in documents as early as 1350 as "Chniepoz". As the narrow path along the Saalach was often impassable due to flooding, Archbishop Markus Sittikus widened it by blasting rocks in 1614. Archbishop Paris Lodron had the "Chniepoz" converted into a fortress in 1621 during the Thirty Years' War . However, as there was no fighting in the region, the fortress has remained in its original state to this day. It was later used for representational purposes and as a shooting station. For a long time, it was also inhabited by hunters and foresters.

Modern visitor center with angular roof design surrounded by forest and tourists near mountain path

A fortress,

which opens a new chapter in its history as a fort

Today, the medieval fortress is being brought back to life as Fort Kniepass, opening a new chapter in its eventful history: With an exciting exhibition and an adventure trail on the subject of "borders", the longest and highest tube slide in western Austria and an open-air arena for events, the fort offers unforgettable experiences for young and old.