Geozentrum Steinstadel

Minerals, fossils and rocks are invaluable witnesses to the history of the earth that tell us a lot about the development of the landscape. The "Steinreich Österreich" exhibition - housed in the "Steinstadel", a centuries-old, listed natural stone building - has set itself the task of collecting and preserving such geological documents for posterity.

On display are magnificent opals, amethysts and turquoises from the Waldviertel, sparkling rock crystals from the Krems Valley ("Kremstal" in German) and the Wachau as well as colorful jaspers and agates from the Dunkelsteinerwald. Not to be missed are the blood-red gemstone garnets from the Mitterbachgraben near Aggsbach. Rare ores from the Limestone Alps and fossils of extinct animals and plants round off the show. The exhibition is constantly being supplemented by current acquisitions and new finds.

Next to the Steinstadel is the old hammer mill, which is well worth seeing. This is currently being restored with great dedication by its owner and should soon be open to visitors again.info at www.hammerschmiede-pehn.at

Public transportation:
Bus route 720 (Krems-Rossatz-Schönbühel-Melk) runs along the south bank of the Wachau between Krems and Melk railroad stations. All information and the timetable can be found at www.vor.at