Discover Leoben through its long theatre history, striking buildings and routes around the city. The main square has been its heart since the 13th century. From here, a range of themes lead to further discoveries: sites from the city’s history, art and museums, and routes for running, cycling and winter activities.
City history between the main square and MaĂźenburg
Leoben City Theatre is Austria’s oldest civic theatre. From 1790, rooms at Homanngasse 5 in the “Hofstätterisches Haus” were adapted for use as a theatre. The Eggenwald garden house is also linked to the city’s history: it is associated with the peace negotiations between France and Austria in 1797.
At the main square, the square’s central role meets distinctive architecture. On its southwest side stands a building richly decorated with stucco, featuring the city’s most significant Baroque façade. The Schwammerlturm is Leoben’s last surviving medieval city gate. For a view across the city, head to the observation tower at Maßenburg, which offers panoramic views. The castle’s first structure dates back to the 9th or 10th century.
Leoben’s parish church also tells a story of changing eras: formerly a Jesuit church, it has an impressive Early Baroque appearance. Inside, the furnishings and high altar shape the overall impression. Another historical trail leads back to 1260: the former mendicant order church and monastery have been incorporated into the LCS shopping centre.
Churches, museums and the art of brewing
In Leoben’s Göss district, the monastery is considered the oldest in Styria. Its distinctive features include architectural and artistic treasures and an early Romanesque crypt. At the KulturQuartier, the MuseumsCenter broadens the perspective, presenting the history of the city of Leoben and the region under the motto “7 Tracks into the Past”. The gallery in the Kunsthalle Leoben focuses on contemporary Austrian art; the Young Museum offers a programme for children and schools.
The Gösseum offers another perspective on a traditional craft, with a modern, interactive introduction to the art of brewing. Cultural discoveries here range from historic theatre and church architecture to city history and contemporary art. Choose the focus of your visit according to whether you are more interested in architectural history, exhibitions or learning about traditional brewing.
On foot, by bike and on the rocks
The Old Town walk takes in numerous secular and religious buildings that can be explored on foot. Leoben has around 35 kilometres of marked routes for running and walking. There are also different landmarks to follow on the cycling routes: the Mur Cycle Route R2 runs for around eight kilometres through Leoben. The Iron Road Cycle Route R38 leads from Leoben via Trofaiach to Hieflau; the section to Vordernberg is 17 kilometres long.
The forest nature trail on Maßenberg explores the importance of forests and the forest ecosystem. In suitable weather, experienced climbers can climb at Lesner Wand on Häuselberg all year round. The Leoben–Hinterberg cycling route also passes a 1,400-square-metre facility comprising a 37-metre-long kids’ track and a 119-metre-long course with rollers and banked turns.
Mur River adventures and a winter trail
Stand-up paddleboarding and rafting on the Mur are offered from the LE Bootshaus. If you prefer snow, you’ll find a five-kilometre cross-country ski trail in Schladnitzgraben. It is family-friendly and suitable for beginners too. Leoben offers a range of activities: from running and walking routes to cycling paths, activities on the Mur, a cross-country ski trail and climbing in suitable weather conditions.
Festivals with a Styrian flair
The Oberlandler z’Loibn church festival takes place at Massenburg in Leoben. Traditional Styrian dishes, selected wines and Gösser beer are available at the festival; the selection may vary from one edition to the next. The Gösser Kirtag is a traditional annual event in Leoben. It features a long street of market stalls, music, regional food and local customs. If a festival is the reason for your trip, check the event dates in advance.
Discover more destinations: Vordernberg, Sankt Peter-Freienstein, Mautern In Steiermark, Leoben, Gai, Sankt Michael In Obersteiermark, Proleb, Eisenerz, Niklasdorf, Hieflau, Kraubath An Der Mur, Trofaiach, Präbichl, Wald Am Schoberpass, Rannach, Kammern Im Liesingtal, Radmer and Sankt Stefan ob Leoben.
See the regional travel overview: Styria.
