Feldkirch

Feldkirch has some of the best preserved medieval old towns in Austria, most of it dating from the 15th century, when the city walls were rebuilt. Starting in 1826, the walls were removed in many places. Two of the original city gates still stand to this day. The 'Katzenturm' (cat tower), which is commonly known as 'Dicker Turm' (fat tower) is a defense tower that was built in 1507. The tower has 8 storeys and is around 40 m tall. In the 17th century, a bell-room was added. It houses a large bell that weighs 8.5 tons. The beautiful Montforthaus hosts various cultural activities throughout the year.

Feldkirch boasts numerous castles and palaces. The Schattenburg Castle dates from the 12th century. It houses a nice museum and offers good views over the town. In the district of Tosters you can see the ruins of a hill castle. Palais Liechtenstein was built in 1697 and is used for exhibitions. It also houses the city library and the city archives.

There are countless beautiful residential buildings in Feldkirch, most of them clustered around Reichsstraße. About 1 km (0.6 miles) from the town center is a free animal park.

In late June the important Schubertiade music festival is held in Feldkirch and during the winter months it is a popular skiing destination.

There are numeroud hotels, café's and restaurants in Feldkirch. The town is on the Rhine River in the westernmost part of Austria, on the border with Liechtenstein and Switzerland, some 520 km west of Wien (Vienna).