Seeklause Steeg, Historical water gate in Bad Goisern, Austria.
Seeklause Steeg is a water gate in Bad Goisern consisting of twelve stone-filled wooden boxes positioned across the lake outflow. Eleven of these boxes have pivoting gates that control and regulate the water flow downstream.
The facility was built in 1523 and extensively renovated between 1564 and 1573 under Thomas Seeauer's direction. This renovation allowed improved use of water for moving salt products in the region.
The structure shows how people here have controlled water for centuries to move salt downstream. This technique was fundamental to the region's economic life and trade.
Visitors can observe the gates from the shore and watch the mechanical system at work, especially visible when water is being released. The best time to visit is during good weather when the mechanism is active and water flow is most apparent.
A wooden lever called the Torspreize allows a single person to open all gates in a short time, creating a controlled surge of water downstream. This simple but effective hand tool reveals the practical ingenuity of the builders.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
