Schruns

Schruns is a small municipality located in the district of St. Johann im Pongau in the Austrian state of Salzburg. The village lies in the upper valley of the Mühlbach river, surrounded by alpine forests and the peaks of the Hochschwab range. The first recorded mention of Schruns dates back to the 12th century, where it appears in a charter as “Schrunaz.” Over the centuries it remained a predominantly agrarian settlement, with forestry and livestock farming as the main economic activities. In the 20th century, tourism began to play a more significant role, especially with the development of winter sports facilities and hiking trails that attract visitors from the surrounding regions.

The population of Schruns is approximately 800 inhabitants. Census data from 2021 indicate a population density of about 20 persons per square kilometer. The demographic structure showcases a relatively balanced distribution across age groups, with a slight skew toward older residents, reflecting broader trends in rural Austrian communities.

Culturally, Schruns hosts an annual spring festival that commemorates the village’s agricultural heritage. This event includes traditional music, local gastronomy, and a farmers’ market featuring regional produce. The village also maintains a small heritage museum that displays artifacts related to its medieval history and the evolution of mountain life.

Schruns is accessible via the Mühlbach road, which connects it to the national highway network. Public transportation from the nearby town of St. Johann im Pongau includes a bus service operating several times daily. The municipality’s administration is responsible for local services such as schooling, waste management, and maintenance of community infrastructure.