History of Lauterach

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of the market town of Lauterach is rooted in the early Middle Ages. The settlement is first mentioned in documentary sources in the year 853 under the name "Lutaraha". The etymology of this name is linked to the local hydrography and translates as "clear" or "transparent water", referring to the river flowing through this area. From the very earliest stages of its existence, the settlement developed in close connection with the Lake Constance region.

Key Development Factors

The transformation of a small village into a significant settlement in Austria was driven by several important circumstances:

• Geographical Location: The town is situated in the immediate vicinity of Bregenz, the historical centre of the region, which provided access to important trade routes and sales markets.
• Natural Resources: The fertile soils in the Rhine Valley created ideal conditions for the development of agriculture, which remained the foundation of the local economy for centuries.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

For centuries, life here proceeded according to the rhythm of the traditional Alpine lifestyle. The main occupations of the inhabitants were arable farming and livestock breeding. Thanks to the mild climate of the valley, horticulture also flourished here. The cultural landscape was shaped by the influence of neighbouring regions; however, the community retained its distinct identity, gradually transforming from an agrarian settlement into an important transport and trade hub of Vorarlberg.

Major Historical Milestones

• 853: A settlement named "Lutaraha" is mentioned in historical documents for the first time, marking the beginning of the chronicles of modern Lauterach.
• 1276: The first written mention of Reichenstein Castle, which later played an important role in the defence and administration of the area.
• 1517: Emperor Maximilian I grants permission for the construction of a strategically important bridge across the Bregenzer Ach river.
• 1618: The community becomes an independent church parish, separating from Bregenz, and the first school opens in the same year.
• 1647: During the Thirty Years' War, Swedish troops under the command of General Wrangel invade the region, causing significant damage.
• 1803–1815: A period of territorial changes, during which the settlements of Neuburg, Reichenstein, and Thalheim were annexed to the community.
• 1805–1814: During the Napoleonic Wars, the territory is temporarily under Bavarian administration before returning to the country of Austria.
• 1878: Construction of the new parish church of St. George, designed in the Neo-Romanesque style, is completed.
• 1933: The famous 116-metre high radio mast is erected, which is today a protected architectural monument.
• 1945–1955: Following the end of the Second World War, the town is located in the French occupation zone until the restoration of state independence.
• 1985: Lauterach officially receives the status of a market town (Marktgemeinde) in recognition of its economic and cultural significance.

Stages of Urban and Economic Growth

The development of the town of Lauterach is a story of transformation from a small agrarian settlement into an important infrastructure and industrial centre of the Vorarlberg region. The key transformations that defined the modern appearance of the town can be divided into several significant stages:

• Formation of a Railway Hub: The construction of the railway in the 19th century was a turning point in the town's history. The appearance of a station and the junction of lines to Bregenz and St. Margrethen turned the community into a strategic transport hub, ensuring an influx of population and a stimulus for trade.
• Industrialisation and Rise as a Logistics Centre: Thanks to its advantageous geographical position at the junction of borders, freight forwarding enterprises began to actively develop in the town. This laid the foundation for the modern economy of Lauterach, which is known today as the headquarters of major international logistics companies.
• Hydraulic Regulation of the Bregenzer Ach River: Large-scale works to reinforce the banks and control the riverbed made it possible to secure the territory against regular floods. This freed up significant areas of land for residential construction and agriculture, contributing to the expansion of the settlement's boundaries.
• Technological Breakthrough of the 1930s: The erection of the radio transmitting station with its famous mast became a symbol of technical progress. This object not only provided the region with communications but also became a recognisable architectural landmark, highlighting the modernisation of infrastructure in Austria during the interwar period.
• Post-War Urbanisation: In the second half of the 20th century, the town experienced a construction boom, turning from a predominantly agricultural community into a comfortable residential suburb with a developed social sphere, schools, and public spaces.
• Official Recognition of Status: The granting of market town status in 1985 became the legal consolidation of economic successes. This event stimulated further improvement of the centre, the development of local business, and the holding of regular fairs that strengthen cultural traditions.

Architectural Evolution: From Tradition to Modernity

The urban planning appearance of the town of Lauterach represents a harmonious intertwining of historical heritage and advanced architectural solutions. The development of the settlement did not follow a single master plan but occurred organically, layering eras upon one another: from ancient farmsteads to the high-tech offices of logistics giants. Unlike imperial cities, there is no lavish Baroque here, but functional and folk architecture, characteristic of the Austria region, is vividly represented.

Key Styles and Eras

In the built environment of Lauterach, several iconic directions can be identified that mark the stages of its history:

• Folk Architecture (17th–19th centuries): The basis of the historical housing stock is formed by traditional Rhine Valley houses (Rheintalhaus). These are wooden or combined structures with gable roofs, often decorated with shingles. They are a reminder of the community's agrarian past and are carefully preserved by their owners.
• Historicism and Neo-Romanesque Style (Late 19th century): The era of economic upswing was marked by the construction of monumental public buildings. A striking example is the parish church, erected on the site of an older structure and reflecting the taste of that time for the revival of medieval forms.
• Engineering Modernism (1930s): The interwar period brought purely utilitarian yet expressive structures to the landscape. Steel trusses and radio masts became symbols of technical progress, adding an industrial accent to the town's panorama.
• New Vorarlberg Architecture (Late 20th – 21st century): Modern Lauterach is being actively built up in the style of the famous regional school (Neue Vorarlberger Baukunst). This direction is characterised by eco-friendliness, the active use of local timber and glass, straight lines, and energy efficiency.

Iconic Buildings and Structures

The appearance of the town is formed by several landmarks, each telling its own story:

• Parish Church of St. George (Pfarrkirche St. Georg): Built in 1879, it is the main sacred structure of the town. The building is executed in the Neo-Romanesque style, distinguished by strict forms, arched windows, and a tall bell tower visible from any point in the vicinity.
• Lauterach Transmitter (Sender Lauterach): Erected in 1933, the steel mast standing over 100 metres tall is not just a technical object but a protected historical monument. It is a rare example of engineering architecture from the first half of the 20th century that has survived to this day.
• Old Soap Factory: An example of industrial architecture that recalls the times of the region's early industrialisation. Today, such objects are often revitalised, transforming into cultural or residential spaces.
• Modern Public Buildings: New schools, kindergartens, and administrative buildings in Lauterach are often designed taking into account the principles of sustainable development, demonstrating a concise design that fits into the natural landscape.

Famous Natives and Residents

The destinies of many talented people who achieved success in sports, the arts, journalism, and military affairs are linked to the town of Lauterach. Their achievements have brought fame to this small settlement far beyond the borders of the region.

• Josef Anton Schertler (1797–1870) — Military Commander and Field Marshal Lieutenant.
  A distinguished military figure of the Habsburg era. For his services, he was awarded the Knight's Cross of the Military Order of Maria Theresa, which was one of the highest awards of the empire. His career serves as an example of service to the state in the 19th century.
• Bruno Pezzay (1955–1994) — Professional Footballer.
  A sports legend, considered one of the best defenders in the history of football represented by Austria. He was a key player for the national team, participating in the 1978 and 1982 World Cups. A sports complex in the town is named in his honour.
• Elmar Oberhauser (born 1952) — Journalist and TV Presenter.
  An influential figure in the Austrian media sphere. For many years, he held senior positions at the ORF broadcasting company and is known as the creator and presenter of popular news and analysis programmes.
• André Pilz (born 1972) — Writer.
  A contemporary author known for his realistic and socially acute novels. His work touches upon current problems of youth and society, gaining recognition in the German-speaking literary space.
• Julian Knowle (born 1974) — Tennis Player.
  A world-class athlete specialising in doubles. His most significant achievement was winning a Grand Slam tournament — the US Open in 2007.
• Markus Weissenberger (born 1975) — Footballer.
  A well-known midfielder who built a successful career in the Austrian and German Bundesliga. He played for the national team for a long time, defending the country's honour in the international arena.