Discover Ottmanach

When planning a trip to Ottmanach, you can explore its cultural history, hiking routes and the distilling tradition of Gut Ottmanach as distinct points of interest. The Ottmanach War Memorial and the Kuesskreuz have different historical functions; in addition, the second stage of the Vierbergeweg trail passes through the village.

Cultural History and Architecture

The Ottmanach War Memorial was erected in memory of those who fell in both world wars and was formally dedicated on July 30, 1960. The purpose and date complement one another: the memorial commemorates those who fell in both world wars, while the dedication marks a specific moment in the memorial’s history.

The Kuesskreuz, also known locally as the Kuesnkreuz, is a three-sided wayside shrine with round-arched niches and chamfered corners. It stands at the road junction on the turn-off to the church in Ottmanach and formerly served as a blessing cross at funerals. The difference in function is clear: the war memorial commemorates those who fell, while the wayside shrine formerly served as a blessing cross at funerals.

Ottmanach Castle is a sight in Ottmanach, but it is not open to visitors because it is privately owned. The rectangular manor house, which has no inner courtyard, was built in the 16th century. When planning your trip, it is therefore important to distinguish between its historical architectural interest and the possibility of visiting it.

Hiking and Navigation

The second stage of the Vierbergeweg trail passes through Ottmanach. On the hiking route from Ottmanach, follow the signs for “Magdalensberg” and “Marienpilgerweg” from a signpost near the church. Check the trail markers on site, as route conditions may change. From the first parking area on the hiking route, at an elevation of 899 m, you can reach the Magdalensberg Archaeological Park in a few minutes. This time estimate applies to the section from the parking area to the park and helps you gauge the time needed for precisely this part of the route.

The Distilling Tradition at Gut Ottmanach

Schnapps has been distilled at Gut Ottmanach in Ottmanach for centuries using traditional methods. The estate received its first distilling licence from Empress Maria Theresa in 1780; the historic licence is still kept there today. The organic schnapps is made using organically grown apples and pears from old Carinthian varieties. The history of the licence and the description of the present-day product thus connect with the estate’s distilling tradition.

The schnapps cellar at Gut Ottmanach and a still more than 100 years old can be visited; arrange access before your arrival.

Magdalensberg Archaeological Park

In the regional context, the Magdalensberg Archaeological Park offers an archaeological point of interest. It covers four hectares and its ruins reveal key areas of the former settlement. The site includes the forum basilica with its tribunal, regarded as the first proven location of state administration in Austria. Here, the focus is on ruins and state administration, while the war memorial and the Kuesskreuz represent other forms of historical commemoration and use.

Discover more destinations: Ebenthal in Carinthia, Ferlach, Töpriach, Plescherken, Sankt Margareten im Rosental, Klagenfurt am Wörthersee, Reifnitz, Techelsberg am Wörther See

Go to the regional travel overview: Klagenfurt-Land.