Zwettl

Zwettl sits at the intersection of the Kamp and Zwettl rivers in Lower Austria and ranks as Austria's third largest municipality by area. The town spreads across a large territory shaped by natural waterways that define its landscape.

A Cistercian monastery was founded in 1139 by the Kuenring knights and shaped the region's development for centuries. The abbey houses rare medieval manuscripts that document the spiritual history of the area.

The name Zwettl originates from the Slavic word 'svetla', meaning clearing or open space, showing early linguistic influences on this Austrian settlement. This heritage shapes how locals understand their town's identity today.

The region offers a network of hiking paths through varied terrain that connect visitors to different parts of the area. The elevation changes are moderate and allow for walks suitable to various fitness levels.

The monastery preserves the only known manuscript of Agnes Blannbekin's life writings, a mystical figure from the Middle Ages. This rare document draws scholars interested in medieval spiritual traditions.

Location: Zwettl District

Elevation above the sea: 612 m

Shares border with: Schweiggers, Kirchberg am Walde, Vitis, Echsenbach, Allentsteig, Pölla, Rastenfeld, Waldhausen, Großgöttfritz, Rappottenstein, Groß Gerungs, Großschönau

Email: stadtamt@zwettl.gv.at

Website: https://zwettl.gv.at

GPS coordinates: 48.60333,15.16889

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:00