Neusiedler

Neusiedler is a German-language term used to refer to things related to Neusiedl am See, a town in Burgenland, Austria, and more broadly to the Neusiedler See region surrounding the lake. The best-known use is Neusiedler See, also called Fertő in Hungarian, a large, shallow lake on the Austrian–Hungarian border.

Geography and environment: Neusiedler See is one of Central Europe’s largest endorheic lakes. It covers about 320 square kilometers and is characteristically shallow, with an average depth around 1.5 meters. The lake sits in a flat steppe landscape with extensive reed beds and seasonal water-level changes, influenced by evaporation and rainfall. The Seewinkel area to the east features salt pans and rich bird habitats.

Protected status and biodiversity: The region is part of the Fertő/Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001, recognized for its cultural and natural values. On the Austrian side, the Neusiedler See-Seewinkel National Park protects wetlands and migratory bird populations.

Economy and culture: The Neusiedler See region is a notable wine area within Burgenland, producing varieties such as Zweigelt, Blaufränkisch, and regional whites. Tourism centers on nature and water sports, cycling routes around the lake, birdwatching, and visits to historic towns including Rust, Neusiedl am See, and Eisenstadt.

History: The region has long been part of the historical Habsburg territories. After World War I, Burgenland, including the Neusiedler See area, became part of Austria in 1921. Ongoing ecological and hydrological management shapes the lake’s condition and landscape.