Hallstatt, Archaeological site in Hallstatt, Austria
Hallstatt Archaeology is an excavation site in the mountains above Lake Hallstatt containing prehistoric salt mines and burial grounds spanning multiple periods. The complex spreads across several areas, with the ancient mines representing the main focus of ongoing research.
Mining at this location dates back to 1500 BCE when Bronze Age communities began extracting salt systematically from the mountain. This activity later enabled the region to become a major trading center in ancient times.
The discoveries from this site were so significant that they shaped how we understand an entire period of early European history. Today, visitors can observe how these findings are displayed in museums to illustrate life from that era.
The excavation site is mainly accessible during summer months from July to September when archaeologists are actively working there. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear since the terrain is mountainous and some paths are quite steep.
The salt-rich environment preserved ancient organic materials exceptionally well, including a wooden staircase from the Bronze Age. This staircase is the oldest of its kind in all of Europe.
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