Details for: Marterlweg
Brief descriptionCircular hiking trail No. 17
A hike for lovers of historical sites!
The first station on the Marterlweg is the Galgenkreuz, a simple granite stone cross in the middle of a forest area, around which many legends revolve. It is said to be a border marker of the three administrative districts of Litschau, Illmau, and Heidenreichstein, as well as a tomb for a sinner stoned to death (the village of Loimanns is located on the Galgenberg) or as a reminder of the expulsion of the Protestants.
In Loimanns, the deaf-mute chapel built in 1979 by many helpers and privately funded stands out with its tower, which vaguely resembles a minaret.
There are chilling stories about the Antoniussäule. For example, it is said to have been the last opportunity for the condemned to pray before execution or even the execution site itself.
Near the Föhrenteich stands another wayside cross. And many legends are also told about the not too far away altar stone, a 1.5-meter large granite block.
Starting point of the tourPanorama board at Herrensee/town square
Destination point of the tourPanorama board at Herrensee/town square
Route description Marterlweg
Starting from the Herrensee, go right along the old city wall to the Mörterteich or the secondary school. Then right through Josef-Gangl-Straße to Südstraße and then left through the residential area to the edge of the forest. Here a 5-minute detour to the Galgenkreuz is worthwhile. Continue straight uphill along the forest edge, turn right at a narrow street to Loimanns. Pass the Taubstummenkapelle on the right through the village to Wiener Straße up to the Antoniussäule. A short stretch on the main street back into the village, then right towards Kibitzhäuser. Then again right towards Litschau, past the Föhrenteich. Over the Mühlweg, it goes back to the starting point of the hike.
By bus from Göpfritz or Gmünd to Litschau. Particularly recommended is the journey from Gmünd to Litschau by the nostalgic Waldviertelbahn.
ParkingFree parking at the town square as well as Park & Ride facilities nearby
You can plan your exact route with the VOR route planner. www.vor.at
Sturdy footwear, functional clothing, sun and rain protection, maps, if necessary telescopic poles, first aid kit (blister plasters), sufficient provisions (snacks, muesli bars, fruit, water).
Safety informationRoute characteristics: 20% asphalt, 80% forest and meadow paths
Make sure when choosing the route that it matches your fitness. Check if the gastronomy businesses you want to visit along the way are open. Pack your mobile phone and map materials in your backpack.
Map recommendationsHiking map "Hiking trails in the air spa town of Litschau" available at the Citizen Service/Tourism Office of the town of Litschau.
Take part in a city tour or visit the local history museum, where you can learn a lot of exciting things!
