Austria [antikvár]

Magnificent scenery and marvellous cultural works constitute Austria's greatest treasures. Thus it is not merely by chance that our homeland still remains one of Europe's most popular travel and holiday destinations.Between the Pannonian atmosphere of the Neusiedler See in the east and Lake Constance, set between the Alps and the Bregenzerwald in the west, the nine Austrian federal provinces cater for practically all tastes with their wealth of landscapes and climatic zones. This applies at least in equal measure to Austria's art and history which are documented in lavish variety in churches and monuments, in castles and costumes, in immortal melodies and in profound words.This book has successfully captured many facets of the Austrian regions, imparting them in such a way that the reader can either recognize himself therein or is prompted to visit this or that province, to view cultural monuments, to take part in festivities, to perceive and to experience at first hand the knowledge, the convictions and the mentality inherent in our traditions.At a time when Europe is drawing closer together Austria can and must play its established part as a catalyst in the heart of this continent. The auspices are favourable: the political barriers have fallen, a strong sense of solidarity is forming, albeit painfully, among the states and the peoples. Vision and dynamic creativity is required in order to step into the future with awareness. Austria can and will make a decisive contribution because it is superbly equipped to do so.Accordingly I trust that this book will be well received; I wish its readers true enjoyment and our country many new friends.