Linz

Linz is the third largest city in Austria, the capital of the state of Upper Austria, and was chosen as the European Cultural Capital in 2009. Although not unaffected by fighting, Linz survived World War II largely intact: the Altstadt (Old Town) is much as it was before the war.

Linz is a functional and industrial city, lacking the beauty of Vienna or the fairytale qualities of Salzburg. However, there are still many charms, including the attractive main square. The square is overlooked by the Trinity Column, erected in 1723 as a sign of gratitude that the people of Linz were saved from the perils of war, fire and plague.

St Martin's Church is the oldest undeveloped church in Austria, existing in its original state since at least 799. The New Cathedral in Linz is the largest church in Austria and was dedicated as a cathedral as recently as 1924. For views over the city and region, take a journey on the Pöstlingberg Railway from the Main Square to the summit of the Pöstlingberg Mountain at the northern end of the city.