Perched in the southeastern part of Bavaria lies Landkreis Traunstein. This district is a realm of geographical diversity and historical depth. Are you ready to explore its story?
Traunstein’s history is layered. In 1972, it merged with parts of Laufen. The previously independent urban district of Traunstein also joined. This merger shaped the Landkreis we know today.
The landscape is quite varied. It stretches from the northern foothills of the Alps. The Chiemsee adds a beautiful touch in the west. The Sonntagshorn is its highest point. It reaches 1,961 meters above sea level. The Salzach Valley near Tittmoning is its lowest at 370 meters.
Traunstein’s coat of arms tells a story. A blue panther symbolizes the Spanheim dynasty. They once ruled part of this area. An eagle represents the diocese of Chiemsee. At the bottom, the arms of Baumburg Abbey represent the northern part. Baumburg means tree-castle.
The Landkreis Traunstein is big. It is the second-largest district in Bavaria by area. Only Ansbach is larger. It belongs to the EuRegio Salzburg. It also connects with Berchtesgadener Land and Traunstein. Within Bavaria, it is known as the Chiemsee-Chiemgau tourism region.
Several rivers define the Landkreis. The Alz starts at Chiemsee. It flows north toward the Inn. The Traun flows from south to north. The Tiroler Achen flows into Chiemsee. To the east, the Salzach River marks the border with Austria.
Traunstein boasts many protected areas. There are nature reserves and landscape conservation areas. These protect the region’s natural beauty.
Historically, the area was linked to Bavarian dukes. It was also connected to Salzburg’s prince-archbishops. In Roman times, it was part of the Noricum province.
In 1802, Bavaria created Landgerichte. These were responsible for administration and justice. The districts of Traunstein and Trostberg existed. Later, Laufen and Tittmoning were added in 1810.
The district of Traunstein formed in 1862. It combined the Landgerichte of Traunstein and Trostberg. Laufen and Tittmoning formed their district. In 1876, the town of Traunstein became independent.
In 1939, Bezirksämter became Landkreise. Laufen and Traunstein transformed. In 1940, Traunstein city joined the Landkreis. This was reversed in 1948.
Traunstein’s population has grown. From 1988 to 2008, it increased by about 23,000.
The vehicle registration code is TS. Since 2016, LF is also available. This is for the former district of Laufen.
The Kreistag has 70 members. This is due to the high population.
Agriculture, industry, trade and tourism are important. Traunreut and Trostberg are industrial centers. Tourism thrives in the south.
In 1860, the railway section Rosenheim-Salzburg opened. Later, local railways connected Traunstein to surrounding towns.
The Chiemgau Tourism Association dissolved in 2009. Since 2010, Traunstein’s communities are part of Chiemgau Tourismus e.V..
The Landkreis Traunstein presents itself as “Chiemsee-Chiemgau”. It promotes itself with a distinct brand.
Traunstein is more than just a location. It is a blend of history, nature and culture. Its story is one of change and growth. It continues to evolve. It embraces its rich heritage. It also looks forward to the future. What will its next chapter be?