Kugelmühle Teufelsgraben
Historic, still-operating ball mill at the Wildkar waterfall in the Teufelsgraben near Seeham, freely accessible along the hiking trail.
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About the museum
In the Salzburg Flachgau region, small balls were ground from hard rock from the late 16th century onwards and reached Rotterdam, Hamburg, Amsterdam and London via Salzburg as export goods, used among other things as ship ballast, ammunition and toys. A toll on exports was already set in 1589.
In the 18th century the Hofkammer dealt with the trade several times; according to a survey there were 87 operations in total across several district courts. At the end of the 18th century, many mills were abandoned for lack of profitability.
A ball mill consists of a horizontal millstone with concentric grooves, the grinder, in which the blanks are moved in a circle and rounded by the water-driven runner. The facility in the Teufelsgraben in the Matzing district of the municipality of Seeham lies below the Wildkar waterfall, which is protected as a natural monument, and is one of the last ball mills still producing on its historic site. It can be reached via the hiking trail network, and on open-house days the ball miller explains the technology and production.
Highlights
- Still-operating ball mill on its historic site
- Location at the Wildkar waterfall in the Teufelsgraben natural monument
- Open-house days with explanations by the ball miller
- Guided geological circular hike
- Sale of handmade stone balls
Admission & discounts
Admission is free.
| Guided geological circular hike | €8Per person; arrange a date by email at kugelmuehle@gmx.at |
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Free admission. Balls are available on site (small approx. 2 cm €5, medium approx. 4 cm €14, large approx. 6 cm €25).
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible: no information
- Elevator: no information
- Accessible restroom: no information
- Accessible parking: no information
- Service dogs welcome: no information
- Tactile models & exhibits: no information
- Sign language tours: no information
- Easy-to-read materials: no information
- Audio description: no information
The mill can only be reached on foot via hiking trails (approx. 15–20 minutes from the car park); because of the limited space, the operator asks for consideration.
Kids & families
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Getting there & parking
By public transit
Matzing (Seeham)
Bus to the stop in the Matzing district (Seeham).
By car
Parking available
Large car park approx. 500 m after the turn-off in Matzing towards the high ropes course/Teufelsgraben/Kugelmühle; from there follow the "Naturerlebnispfad" signs, walking time approx. 15–20 minutes.
From the centre of Seeham, drive towards Obertrum to the Matzing district. Alternatively, a path with views leads from the Biohotel Schießentobel to the mill.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Events & venue rental
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Plan your visit
| Guided tours | yes |
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| Good to know | The geological circular hike begins and ends at the Schießentobelgut and leads through the Teufelsgraben to the Wildkar waterfall and the ball mill (guided by a geologist and ball miller, €8 per person). During the Long Night of Museums there are guided torchlight hikes through the Teufelsgraben. |
