Ever wondered where the name Elixhausen comes from? The story of Elixhausen is closely linked to a Benedictine convent. Elixhausen is an Austrian municipality. It lies in the district of Salzburg-Umgebung in the state of Salzburg. We are about 10 km northeast of the city of Salzburg.
Elixhausen’s history stretches back over a millennium. The earliest documented mention of Elixhausen dates back to around the year 1000. An old document from Nonnberg Abbey refers to it as “Ebidechsumhusa”. This translates to “House of the Abbess.” This name stemmed from a land exchange. Archbishop Hartwig and relatives of the Benedictine convent of Nonnberg were involved. Most farmers in the area were under the rule of the Nonnberg Abbey.
In 1122, the Ursprung estate was documented for the first time. With over 100 hectares, it was one of the biggest landowners. This was in the northern Flachgau region. In 1151, Elixhausen had 141 residents in 27 houses excluding Ursprung. Ursprung back then consisted of 19 houses with 102 residents. The village got its own small church between 1168 and 1175. The name Edexhausen was established in 1334. It then evolved through Elexhausen to the current name.
Elixhausen became a Catholic parish in 1891. Today, the Roman Catholic parish includes approximately 1900 people. The Protestant community of Sachsenheim was founded by people from Siebenbürgen. It has about 500 members.
Elixhausen is nestled in the Flachgau region. The municipality is divided into five subdivisions. These are Ursprung, Moosham, Sachsenheim, Auberg, and Katzmoos. The municipality is next to the Ursprunger moor, which is over 5000 years old.
Elixhausen is known for a number of things. It was ranked as Austria’s most creditworthy municipality from 2020 to 2022. This is according to the Zentrums für Verwaltungsforschung. The inn Elixhauser Wirt is the country’s oldest family business. It has been around since 1334. The Red Cross Museum Salzburg has a branch in Elixhausen. Twelve historic ambulances are on display there.
The municipality’s coat of arms tells a story. It was awarded to Elixhausen in 1973. It depicts an abbess and a house. The abbess is dressed in black holding a silver staff. The silver house has a golden hipped roof. These symbols represent Nonnberg Abbey. They reflect the historical connection to the village’s name.
Elixhausen is more than just a village. It is a place with a rich history and culture. From its humble beginnings as “House of the Abbess”. To its modern-day achievements, Elixhausen has a unique story to tell. Take a moment to appreciate the blend of history and progress that defines Elixhausen.