Nestled in the rolling hills of Austria, a remarkable 400-year-old farmhouse stands as a testament to enduring craftsmanship and family legacy. Recently shared on Reddit by user Ferina27, new drone photos of this historic gem have captivated the online community, drawing admiration for its timeless beauty and rich history. Originally a working farm, the house combines rustic charm with functional design, offering a glimpse into a bygone era.
The house’s current state reveals a well-loved retreat that thrives in harmony with its natural surroundings. The white plaster base contrasts beautifully with the weathered wooden upper levels, adorned with vibrant red geraniums spilling from balcony flower boxes—a touch of color that echoes the care of its inhabitants. A sturdy wooden bench sits invitingly by the arched entrance, while a children’s swing set hints at the lively family life within. The steeply pitched roof, crowned with a small bell tower, stands resilient against the backdrop of rolling hills, blending seamlessly with the verdant landscape.
A Living Legacy in the Alps
The farmhouse, believed to date back to at least 1593 based on a sign above one of its doors, may even be older, as pre-1582 calendar changes in Austria could obscure its exact age. The front section serves as the living quarters, featuring a traditional Stube (living room), kitchen, five sleeping rooms, two baths, and various storage spaces. The backside, once a stable and barn, reflects its agricultural roots, a common trait among Austrian farmhouses of the period. The structure is a mix of stone on the ground floor, white plaster, and an abundance of wood, with the pine exterior maintained through a sanding technique that keeps it looking remarkably fresh despite its age.
Commenters on the post were quick to marvel at the house’s preservation. “The stories that house could tell! Wow,” wrote one user, while another noted, “Obviously your family has been very good caretakers of the house.” The drone photos reveal a massive chalet-style building surrounded by fields and mountains, evoking a scene straight out of a storybook.
Preserving Tradition Through Care
Inside, the house is a blend of history and practicality. The owner mentioned that it currently houses eight people across four generations, a testament to its spaciousness and adaptability. The living areas are warmed by tradition, with rooms like the Stube serving as the heart of family life. The back section, still partly used for farm purposes, includes a room for making schnaps, a nod to local customs. Solar panels and balcony flower boxes, cared for by the owner’s mother, show how they balance modernity with heritage.
Maintenance has been key to the house’s longevity. The sanding technique, described as “Sandstrahlen” or sandblasting in English, lightens the dark wood exterior, while careful upkeep preserves the stone and plaster. Questions from the community, like whether there’s a bell chain in the roof or when plumbing and electricity were added, highlight curiosity about its evolution. They noted that the house’s age and care make it a local landmark, with some suggesting it could be even older if tied to pre-Gregorian calendar shifts.
A Global Inspiration and Family Legacy
The Reddit post, which garnered nearly 5,000 votes and 254 comments, sparked a global conversation about historic preservation. Users from places like Switzerland and Florida shared similar experiences with old homes, emphasizing that good care extends a house’s life. “Love the solar panels too. Classic Austria vibes,” one commenter wrote, appreciating the blend of old and new.
For the family, the farmhouse isn’t just a home—it’s a legacy. As they continue to live in and maintain this over-400-year-old structure, they ensure its stories endure for future generations.
Credit: Reddit/u/Ferina27