Unterstein, Religious hermitage in Sankt Jakob in Defereggen, Austria.
Unterstein is a hermitage located at about 1400 meters elevation in the Defereggental valley, situated beside the Steinerbach stream and the valley road. The site shows the typical structure of an alpine settlement with stone buildings that adapt to the steep topography of the area.
The settlement originated from the Salzburg Jesach estate, a 17th century property that existed as an enclave among other alpine farms. This foundation was part of the economic structure that shaped trade and management of the mountain region.
The name refers to its rocky location and shows traces of a community that moved between mountain farming and spiritual life. Visitors can see how residents shaped their daily lives in close connection with nature.
Visitors can reach the hermitage on foot and should be prepared for steep paths and alpine elevation. The nearest basic facilities and lodging are located in the valleys below.
The Gasser family originated from this settlement, including physician Norbert Gasser who later served as chief doctor at the Lienz hospital. The connection shows how alpine villages produced educated professionals who made careers in larger cities.
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