Wienerwaldmuseum Eichgraben: A Journey Through Time

Nestled in the charming town of Eichgraben, the Wienerwaldmuseum provides a fascinating journey through the history, geology, and culture of the Wienerwald region. Founded in 1999, this regional museum has become a cornerstone of local heritage, inviting visitors to explore the diverse facets of this enchanting area.The museum's exhibits offer a comprehensive overview of the Wienerwald's evolution. The geological section displays rocks, minerals, and fossils dating back millions of years. Visitors can marvel at the rosa-graue Gips from Preinsfeld, a 255-million-year-old rock that forms the base of the Northern Limestone Alps. The archaeological section transports visitors to prehistoric times, with artifacts from the Stone Age, Bronze Age, Hallstatt period, and the Roman Empire. Highlights include exhibits from Austria's oldest mining site, Antonshöhe in Vienna, and an interactive station dedicated to wickerwork. A reconstructed Roman burial mound can be found in the open-air section.The museum delves into the medieval and early modern periods, exploring themes such as the Christianization of the region, the founding of monasteries, the impact of the plague, and the Ottoman invasions. The folklore collection offers a glimpse into the daily lives of the Wienerwald's inhabitants, with displays of traditional costumes, tools, and household items. Exhibits trace the development of Eichgraben from its first mention in 1345 to its growth as a popular summer retreat, spurred by the construction of the railway.One of the museum's unique features is its open-air section, which includes a charcoal kiln. The museum also features the "KuMst" cave, a naturalistically reconstructed cave that blends scientific and artistic elements to reveal the secrets of the underground world. During the summer months (April to September), live handicraft demonstrations provide a glimpse into traditional trades like blacksmithing, carpentry, and pottery.