The “Tauriska” Cultural Association is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. The association is a major cultural and regional initiative in the Salzburg region. Based in Neukirchen am Großvenediger in the Oberpinzgau region, it has been committed since its founding in 1986 to promote regional culture, preserve traditions, and further develop cultural and social life in the Hohe Tauern National Park region.
https://on.orf.at/video/14344665/oesterreich-bild-vom-menschlichen-mass-auf-den-spuren-von-tauriska
“Tauriska” was founded on January 28, 1986, by the Salzburg cultural activist Alfred Winter (1946–2026) together with the philosopher Leopold Kohr (1909–1994). The association’s founding was also linked to the development of the Hohe Tauern National Park. The goal was to
involve the local population more closely in regional development and to strengthen awareness of the region’s cultural and social values. The name “Tauriska” derives from the Taurisci, a Celtic tribe that once lived in the Alpine region.
“Small is Beautiful”—The Association’s Philosophy
A fundamental basis for the work of “Tauriska” is the philosophy of the Austrian economist and philosopher Leopold Kohr. He believed that manageable structures, regional autonomy, and a human scale are essential prerequisites for a society worth living in. He gained international recognition, among other things, for his idea that “Small is beautiful.” This philosophy continues to shape the association’s work to this day. The Kammerlanderstall, an 18th-century building, serves as the cultural center. It combines historic architecture with modern event technology.
The Leopold Kohr Academy
An important component of “Tauriska’s” work is the Leopold Kohr Academy. It focuses on the thoughts and ideas of Leopold Kohr and seeks to apply them to current social, economic, and environmental challenges. The focus is on the sustainable development of the region, environmental responsibility, quality of life in rural areas, regional economic cycles, education and social exchange, as well as a human-centered approach to business and society. Lectures, symposia, seminars, and panel discussions bring together diverse perspectives.
Literature Festival “Literatur findet Land”
Over the course of its 40-year history, “Tauriska” has developed, supported, and facilitated numerous projects. Among the best-known projects is the literature festival “Literatur findet Land,” which, since 2019, has been bringing authors and literary themes to rural areas and providing a platform for both well-known and lesser-known writers. The co-founder, key creative force, and artistic director of the literary festival is Florian Gantner, a native of Neukirchen who lives in Vienna as a freelance writer. He provides a platform for literature in rural areas, serving as a bridge between city and countryside, between the established literary scene and regional cultural life. With “Literatur findet Land,” he has created a space where contemporary literature finds its way into the Oberpinzgau region and where encounters between authors and audiences become possible. He demonstrates that sophisticated literature is by no means confined to large cities or renowned cultural institutions. It can unfold its power especially in rural areas—right in the midst of the people. “Literatur findet Land” has thus become more than just a literary festival. It is a plea for cultural openness, for encounters, and for the conviction that literature can be at home wherever people make room for it.
Steinberg-Thoma Museum, Dialect Preservation, Kapellenweg, and the Bramberger Fruit Press
The Steinberg-Thoma Museum is dedicated to the life and extraordinary mechanical figures of Steinberg Thoma. In this way, a special piece of regional history and craftsmanship is preserved.
Preserving the regional language and traditional culture is another important area of focus for “Tauriska.” This includes documenting the Pinzgau dialect.
Among other things, the association has supported the development of the Kapellenweg trail in Neukirchen, the Bramberg fruit press, and various cultural initiatives in the Pinzgau region. “Tauriska’s” work is also significant for tourism and the region’s appeal. Culture complements the region’s tourist offerings and highlights that the Upper Pinzgau is characterized not only by its impressive natural and mountain landscapes but also by its cultural diversity. The results to date are remarkable: According to a report in the regional newspaper *MeinBezirk* on February 25, 2026, more than 3,200 events have been held over four decades, reaching over 800,000 visitors. In addition, 190 publications have been released by the association’s own publishing house. These figures underscore the association’s long-standing cultural work and its great importance to the region. “Tauriska” is a successful example of how regional autonomy, cultural engagement, and sustainable development can be combined.
Susanna Vötter-Dankl and Christian Vötter have always played—and continue to play—a very important role in the development of Tauriska. They have played a key role in shaping and influencing the association since its early years. Their daughter Sarah has joined the management team, providing much-needed support. This gives us hope that “Tauriska” will continue to hold a firm place in the cultural life of the Oberpinzgau for decades to come.
Johanna Wenninger-Muhr
Sources and Further Information
Official website of the cultural association: https://www.tauriska.at/
Florian Gantner – Residenzverlag
ORF Salzburg, May 8, 2026: 40 Years of Tauriska https://salzburg.orf.at/radio/stories/3353369/
ORF Salzburg, November 20, 2022: Tauriska carries out valuable cultural work.https://salzburg.orf.at/stories/3183022/
MeinBezirk, February 25, 2026: Tauriska has been shaping the cultural landscape for 40 years