Messern is ideal for relaxing hikes in the area around the village and the Taffa Valley. At the same time, its historical traces stretch from the first documentary mention to the medieval gallows and the Renaissance conversion of Wildberg Castle. This links your choice of route to the question of which part of the village’s history you would like to learn more about.

Hiking Trails and Landscape

The Angelika Trail is a moderately difficult, 4.80-kilometre hiking route starting in Messern. It follows the Taffa River and passes two mills. The Sandbach Trail starts at the main square in Messern, passes over Kirchenberg Hill and by Wildberg Castle, then continues along well-maintained forest and field paths to Irnfritz-Bhf. The Angelika Trail offers a specific distance and difficulty level to help you choose a route; the Sandbach Trail’s starting point, route, path types and destination provide guidance.

The “mir schmeckt’s” experience trail can be explored on foot or by bicycle in Messern and the surrounding area. If you would like to explore the area by more than just walking, this trail also offers a cycling option. The area around Messern and the Taffa Valley is ideal for relaxing hikes in still-unspoilt nature.

Another nearby point of interest is a natural pond at the edge of the forest along the road from Irnfritz-Ort to Messern. The Irnfritz-Messern market municipality issues fishing permits there. Thus, attractions around Messern include both hikes in the Taffa Valley and this nearby natural pond.

History Between Market Town and Wildberg

Messern was first mentioned in a document in 1210 by Engilbert von Meizzare. The foundation stone of the parish church was laid in the 14th century; in 1513, Emperor Maximilian elevated the village to market-town status. These dates mark different stages in the village’s history: its first documentary mention, its church-building history and its market-town status. The pillory in Messern dates from 1677 and is a sign of the former lower-court jurisdiction.

From the very beginning, Messern’s history was closely linked to Wildberg Castle, which stands high above the Taffa Valley. At the end of the 16th century, Hans von Puchheim converted Wildberg Castle into a Renaissance castle and strengthened its defences. Galgenberg was an execution site associated with Wildberg Castle; the three round pillars there are the remains of a medieval gallows. Thus, Wildberg’s history brings together architectural development and former judicial authority.

One trail passes the Illy Mill. It was built in 1570 as a powder mill for producing gunpowder. This mill’s history adds a distinct historical connection to the routes along the Taffa and past two mills.

Brick Museum: Production and Symbolism

A private brick museum houses a collection of more than 3,000 bricks. A guided tour, available by prior arrangement, provides insights into brickmaking and the significance of the symbols incorporated into the bricks. While the pillory, Galgenberg and Wildberg Castle are connected with local and legal history, the brick museum focuses on materials, production and symbols. If you are interested in craftsmanship and symbolism, this subject offers a different cultural perspective.

Discover more destinations: Röschitz, Klein-Reinprechtsdorf, Meiseldorf, Eggenburg, Gars Am Kamp, Horn, Langau, Sigmundsherberg.

Return to the main travel overview: Horn.