Grafenau – History
Grafenau is the oldest town in the Bavarian Forest. In as early as 1376, it was authorised by Emperor Karl IV. to demarcate its territory with walls and to claim privileges that helped the community prosper greatly.
The salt trade was vital to the development of the town. Grafenau was almost certainly a hospitable place of rest and business for salt traders even then, as they transported their cargos of “white gold” to Bohemia along arduous mule tracks. Though the “Woid”, as the Bavarian Forest is lovingly known in the local dialect, was historically viewed as an isolated and inaccessible place, it is precisely this quality which makes it so attractive today.
Despite its venerable age, Grafenau still retains an unmistakably youthful energy and verve. A great deal of importance is attached to culture and preserving tradition here. There is plenty of history to discover in Grafenau, whether in the historical town square, at the town’s medieval festivals or on a town tour guided by a night watchman from another age.
Grafenau is also home to the Bavarian Forest National Park Administration. Germany’s first national park was created just a stone’s throw from town in 1970.
The local economy is well structured and spans a variety of sectors, from construction supplies to electronics and mechanical engineering.
Over the years, the former trading town of Grafenau has developed into an attractive and high-flying community which stands out by virtue of its recreational highlights as well as the extraordinary and idyllic surrounding landscape.