The territory of modern Austria was anciently settled .People chose these lands in the prehistoric period, as evidenced by the numerous archaeological finds .The first who exerted a serious influence were the Celts who came from outside, who founded in the 2nd century BC + $ .e .a kingdom called Norik .However, they were not long-term rulers .As in most future European countries, from high "posts" they were replaced by the ancient Romans, who first acted as allies only, but later turned the kingdom into one of the provinces of the Roman Empire..From this moment all settlements begin to develop rapidly .In particular, two future largest Austrian cities are gaining more weight - Vienna and Salzburg .

History of Austria-Hungary (English)

The construction of roads, fortification systems, a high level of culture second in terms of the importance of ancient civilization and much more had a huge impact on the population. Nevertheless, some of the achievements were lost because of the raids of the Germans and the Great Migration of Nations. In the Middle Ages, Austria was torn by wars, which eventually led to the reign of the Babenberg dynasty, the predecessors of the great Habsburgs.

It was at Babenberg that one of the most ancient national flags in the world was created and to this day is the official flag of Austria. His colors - red and white, according to legend, were the colors of Leopold V's clothes after the battle during the third crusade. The blood on the ruler's garments and the fragment that remained intact under the belt, the white strips of fabric became symbols of the future great empire.

But it was during the Habsburgs that Austria reached its highest dawn. More than six hundred years, representatives of this family managed large areas, which included at different times the lands of Hungary, Italy, the Czech Republic, Croatia, Spain, Portugal, Transylvania and even Mexico. In addition, during the period from 1438 to 1806, the Habsburgs wore the title of emperors of the Holy Roman Empire.

Until 1918, when the Austrian Republic was proclaimed in connection with a whole series of events, not the least of which the defeat in the First World War took place, the great dynasty confirmed its right to be called one of the most powerful in Europe.

Modern Austria is the heiress of the republic. Participation in the Second World War and other events of the 20th century caused considerable damage to Austrian culture. Despite this, much has been preserved and every year attracts a huge number of tourists from all over the world.

Interior of the Franz Josef Kaiser in Bad Ischl, Salzkammergut, Salzburg, Austria History of Austria
Kaiser Franz Josef Villa in Bad Ischl
Castle Anif, Salzburg, Austria. History of Austria
Anif Castle
The Golden Roof of Innsbruck, Tyrol, Austria History of Austria
The Golden Roof of Innsbruck