Watch Cosmos Global Documentaries CULTURAL TREASURES: AUSTRIA
- NR
- 2007
- 53 min
"Cosmos Global Documentaries: Cultural Treasures: Austria" is a visually stunning and intellectually enriching exploration into the cultural history of Austria. A country famed for its beautiful landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and contributions to classical music; this film takes on a journey of Austria's past, present, and future, and the intersection of the land, the people, and the culture that has made it such an important part of global art and history.
The documentary is divided into different chapters, each showcasing the cultural treasures of different regions of Austria. We begin in Vienna, an iconic and opulent city located on the banks of the Danube River, and known as the "City of Music". It was the stage for many legendary composers, including Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss, who have left their mark on the city's cultural fabric. The chapter delves into Vienna's iconic landmarks, such as the Schonbrunn Palace, the Hofburg Palace complex, and the Vienna State Opera. It also explores the city's incredible art scene, including the world-renowned Belvedere Museum, which houses a vast collection of beautiful art pieces, such as Klimt's world-famous artwork, The Kiss.
Moving south to Styria, a region known as the "green heart" of Austria, we witness the beauty of this vast, lush region, with its stunning landscapes and creative approach to rural living. This chapter explores Styria's many treasures, such as the Riegersburg Castle, which is celebrated as a symbol of the region's castle tradition. The area's culinary delights are also highlighted, showcasing its famous apples, vineyards, and cheeses. We even learn of the local beer's unique recipes and centuries-old history, which are all feats of traditional craftsmanship.
The journey continues to western Austria, where we travel through Salzburg, Tyrol, and the Vorarlberg regions. Salzburg, where Mozart was born and raised, has cemented its place in history as the site of the Sound of Music movie. The documentary visits the city's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which has remained remarkably well preserved. We learn about the mozART gallery and the Museum of Modern Art, which are entertaining addition to the cultural scene in Salzburg. Tyrol is depicted as the birthplace of modern skiing in the western part of the country. The chapter also highlights Serfaus, a car-free village with a unique model of urban planning that prioritizes the well-being of locals and visitors alike. In Vorarlberg, we learn about the famous Bregenzer Festspiele, which is a massively popular spectacle that attracts cultural tourists from around the world, thanks to its grand opera house and breathtaking floating stage.
The final chapter takes us to the east, to Burgenland, an underrated region of Austria, which is home to some of the most important archaeological sites in the country, as well as winegrowers, and local festivals. The chapter concludes with a focus on the Neusiedler See, a vast lake that stretches across the border between Austria and Hungary. The lake is home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna, which is a crucial source of life and inspiration for the local people. This chapter also explores the legendary Esterházy Palace, one of the most splendid Baroque structures in Austria.
Overall, Cosmos Global Documentaries: Cultural Treasures: Austria is an educational and entertaining trip that celebrates Austria's rich cultural heritage through stunningly beautiful imagery and informative narration. This documentary is a must-see for anyone interested in history, culture, and art. It provides a broad overview of the country and showcases its cultural and artistic treasures, making it the ideal choice for any cultural tourist looking to discover a hidden gem.