2024-08-29 16:53:00
Just in time for the anniversary celebration of the city’s elevation, Lilienfeld will be nationally featured on ORF III in “Land der Berge.” The nearly 50-minute film titled “Alms in Lower Austria” also selected the alpine area “Am Himmel,” which is entirely located within the municipality of Lilienfeld. It will be broadcast on September 5 at 20:15.
During three filming days, the already mentioned alpine pasture from the 14th century and the current “Hoida,” as the shepherd is called in Lower Austria, were portrayed. The first filming day took place on August 15, 2023, during the alpine festival “Am Himmel.” “Here, the traditional herb and livestock blessing was highlighted. In two other settings, I was accompanied while working with the grazing livestock and also filmed while playing the Great Organ in the Stift Lilienfeld,” describes Hanak.
Numerous other alpine pastures in Lower Austria are lovingly documented in this film, showcasing the region’s diversity impressively. Each of these alpine pastures tells its own story through the unique fauna and flora of the alps and the people who manage them, inviting viewers to become part of this unique heritage.
Bernhard Hanak’s Work in Lilienfeld
Born in Carinthia, Bernhard Hanak got to know Lilienfeld in the mid-1980s as a participant in the summer academy, took over the church choir of the abbey basilica in 1991 while still a music student. He played a significant role in the success of the special exhibition “CISTO” and served as artistic director of “Advent in Lilienfeld” for three years. During this time, internationally renowned ensembles, such as the Vienna Boys’ Choir and the St. Florian Choir, as well as members of the Vienna Symphony Orchestra, performed in Lilienfeld.
To provide a suitable platform for folk culture, Hanak initiated the popular “Jagaweihnacht” in 2005, which still exists today. Since 2014, he has been the holder and Alpine host “Am Himmel.” Together with Jonny Weißmann, he published two books about the two alpine pastures in the municipality of Lilienfeld.
The now out-of-print illustrated book about the history of Himmelalm was published in the fall of 2021. On the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the cable car to Muckenkogel, Hanak and Weißmann wrote a book that addresses the history of the cable car, the local mountain Muckenkogel, and alpine farming.
Exploring the Future of Cultural Heritage and Agricultural Tourism in Austria
As the picturesque region of Lilienfeld gears up for its anniversary celebration, cultural initiatives like the upcoming ORF III documentary “Almen in Niederösterreich” are paving the way for a renewed interest in rural traditions and agricultural tourism. Scheduled to air on September 5, 2023, this documentary highlights the rich history and biodiversity of Austria’s alpine pastures, including the renowned Almgebiet “Am Himmel.” Such initiatives underline a growing trend towards the preservation of local culture, encouraging visitors to engage with the region’s heritage.
The film’s focus on the role of shepherds, or “Hoida,” represents a shift towards valuing those who maintain and protect these landscapes. As more people seek immersive, authentic experiences in nature, agricultural tourism—where visitors can partake in traditional practices—will likely see a surge in popularity. This aligns with global trends where tourists prioritize sustainability and local engagement over conventional tourism methods.
Revitalizing Folk Culture through Community Engagement
Influential figures like Bernhard Hanak exemplify the potential for revitalizing local culture while enhancing tourism. Since taking over the Alm “Am Himmel” in 2014 and acting as a cultural ambassador, Hanak has fostered community projects such as the “Jagaweihnacht” festival, which have resonated strongly with locals and tourists alike. His efforts illustrate the importance of leadership in cultural revivals and suggest that communities may continue to mobilize grassroots initiatives to attract visitors seeking traditional experiences.
The creation of books documenting local history and practices, like Hanak’s collaboration on “Almwirtschaft,” signifies a trend of storytelling that enriches the visitor experience, encapsulating the region’s essence and drawing attention to the significance of agricultural landscapes in modern culture. This narrative-driven approach to tourism could inspire more communities to document and share their unique stories, thereby enhancing their appeal as tourist destinations.
Ecological and Cultural Preservation as Central Themes
The emphasis on biodiversity and ecological sustainability will become increasingly critical in the future of cultural tourism. As showcased in the documentary, each alpine pasture not only tells its own story but also plays a vital role in the region’s ecology. This awareness is prompting a trend where conservation efforts are integrated into tourism practices, allowing visitors to appreciate and actively participate in preserving these vital landscapes.
Overall, as the world pivots towards sustainability and community-centered tourism, the experiences and practices in Lilienfeld serve as a blueprint for other regions. Future endeavors will likely focus on harmonizing cultural heritage with modern tourism demands, fostering a deeper connection between visitors and rural traditions.