Rattenberg

This medieval town, perhaps the smallest in Austria, was once famous for its silver mines. When the mines were exhausted, Rattenberg lapsed into a deep sleep lasting for centuries. You might think you're back in the Middle Ages as you ramble the narrow old streets full of relics of its past; the town has remained remarkably unchanged. Today Rattenburg is known for its glass and crystal artists, whose shops are mostly along Südtirolerstrasse. Local legend has it that the ruins of Emperor Maximilian's massive castle, which looms above the town, are haunted by ghosts.