Austrian Scythe Smithy Museum

The OÖ. Scythesmith Museum in Micheldorf is located on the site of the former scythe forge at Gries, which has existed since the 16th century and was the last of the original 15 Micheldorf scythe factories to close down in 1966. Micheldorf was the starting point and center of the Austrian scythe industry for centuries. In the Kirchdorf-Micheldorf region - already 200 years before the "Industrial Revolution" - scythes were produced in early industrial plants with water-powered hammers and specialized workers and exported by the millions all over the world. This special blacksmith's craft has been a UNESCO Intangible World Heritage Site since 2014.

At Micheldorf´s "Workshop at Grieß" (Gradn), visitors are provided with insights into the life and traditions of the area´s rich blacksmith dynasties, who were dubbed "Black Earls".
The high-quality scythes were much in demand in foreign countries and brought prosperity to the local scythe manufacturers. The economic development and the worldwide business relations are demonstrated at the "Kram" Building. At the "Hammer", visitors learn interesting details on the elaborate manufacture of high quality scythes.

Guided Tours for Groups of 10+ can be arranged year-round and anytime by appointment.

For Details and Bookings, contact the Tourist Information Office,
Hauptplatz 10, 4560 Kirchdorf, T +43 725253229-30