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Template:Infobox Ort in Österreich Rattenberg (Central Bavarian: Råttnberg) is a town on the Inn River in the Austrian state of Tyrol near Rattenberg mountain and Innsbruck. It is the smallest town in the country.
Geography
The geography surrounding the town, like an estimated 60 other communities nested in the Tyrol region of the Alps, means that Rattenberg receives little to no sunlight during the winter. It is one of the few places at a significant distance from the Arctic Circle that has a time of permanent darkness.
History
Founded in the 14th century, it was built in the literal shadow of Rat Mountain to protect itself from marauders. Maximilian I had the original town citadel expanded to a formidable fortress.[1]
The modern era
In November 2005, the town announced they were building 30 specialized rotating mirrors called heliostats to reflect sunlight into parts of the town during the winter months. The $2.4 million operation was suggested by Bartenbach Lichtlabor GmbH, a lighting design company. The EU planned to foot half the bill as of November 2005. However, the project was never implemented.
Population
| Year | Pop. | ±% |
|---|---|---|
| 1869 | 679 | — |
| 1880 | 727 | +7.1% |
| 1890 | 737 | +1.4% |
| 1900 | 752 | +2.0% |
| 1910 | 711 | −5.5% |
| 1923 | 701 | −1.4% |
| 1934 | 742 | +5.8% |
| 1939 | 676 | −8.9% |
| 1951 | 879 | +30.0% |
| 1961 | 745 | −15.2% |
| 1971 | 652 | −12.5% |
| 1981 | 590 | −9.5% |
| 1991 | 526 | −10.8% |
| 2001 | 436 | −17.1% |
| 2011 | 405 | −7.1% |
Economy
Rattenberg has been known for its glass making. Its abundance of crystal glass shops continue the tradition of craftsmanship.[2]
References
External links
- Website of the Rattenberg Tourist Board
- News story about the mirror plan
- English version of the Bartenbach website
- Pictures of Rattenberg
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