Once known as the mining cradle of Austria, the region of Eastern Upper Styria has long lost its economic and financial power. The impact on some of the municipalities has been huge. One still struggling with the structural change of the region is the City of Eisenerz which is facing heavy demographic problems and thus, has turned into Austria`s oldest city. Dealing not only with a shrinking population but also with financial problems it finds itself in a vicious circle that is hard to break. In the northern part of the city, the former Münichtal blast furnace site - with most of its buildings abandoned - ekes out its existence and is waiting for a fresh start into a new future.     «

Once known as the mining cradle of Austria, the region of Eastern Upper Styria has long lost its economic and financial power. The impact on some of the municipalities has been huge. One still struggling with the structural change of the region is the City of Eisenerz which is facing heavy demographic problems and thus, has turned into Austria`s oldest city. Dealing not only with a shrinking population but also with financial problems it finds itself in a vicious circle that is hard to break. In...     »