Flattendorf was founded around shortly after 1130 and was first mentioned in a document in 1270, at that time under the name Vlattendorf. Flado is considered its founder and namesake; he was probably a knight of the Stubenbergs. The foundation is attributed to the Lords of Stubenberg. The dates mark different milestones: an approximate time of foundation and the first written mention. For travellers interested in the development of small villages, this early history offers a concrete starting point.
St. Anna am Masenberg and the Old Pilgrims’ Route
The church of St. Anna am Masenberg is also part of the region’s cultural history. It lies halfway along the old pilgrims’ route between Hartberg and Pöllauberg. The Gothic church was built between 1453 and 1499; around 1710, a Baroque bell tower was added. This brings together a late-medieval building phase and a later Baroque addition. For a cultural-history trip, the contrast between the Gothic church and the Baroque tower is clear.
The high altar reveals another historical layer: the Baroque altar was donated by the Counts of Herberstein in 1676 and houses the Gothic votive image “Anna Selbdritt” (Saint Anne with the Virgin Mary and Jesus). The artwork thus brings together a Baroque donation and a Gothic image motif; the depiction of Anne, Mary and Jesus makes the name “Anna Selbdritt” (Saint Anne with the Virgin Mary and Jesus) tangible. The Flattendorf village chapel is protected as a historic monument by ordinance and adds a distinct protected building to the local cultural heritage.
Exploring by e-bike or on foot
For an active outing, consider the Ökotour via Schildbach and Kaindorf: it passes through Flattendorf and is suitable for e-bike riders. As a circular route, it offers a specific cycling option alongside the region’s architecture and art history. It suits an itinerary that prioritises cycling over an exclusively cultural-history focus.
In the Hartberg area, marked hiking trails covering 35 kilometres pass the Villa Rustica, Neuberg Castle with its castle chapel, and the pilgrimage church of St. Anna. This gives you two different ways to explore: an e-bike circuit that passes through Flattendorf, or marked hiking trails to several named destinations in the Hartberg area. Before setting off, it is worth checking the current route, as conditions on individual hiking trails can change.
Regional cuisine and more hiking ideas
For a taste of the region, around ten Buschenschank wine taverns in the Hartberg area invite visitors to enjoy award-winning wines and authentic East Styrian specialities. This adds a dedicated culinary focus to regional plans alongside hiking and cultural attractions.
In Pöllau Valley Nature Park and the ApfelLand-Stubenbergsee region, you can combine individual Orgelwandern tours with hikes that include art, culture and culinary experiences. Unlike a visit focused on a single building, this offer brings together hiking, art, culture and cuisine. You can choose what to prioritise on your trip, from local history and architecture to cycling, hiking and regional culinary experiences.
Discover more destinations: Neudau, Sankt Johann Bei Herberstein, Loipersdorf Bei FĂĽrstenfeld, Vorau, Buch-Geiseldorf, Sankt Stefan, Wenigzell, Stein
Return to the main travel overview: Hartberg-FĂĽrstenfeld.
