Old Town Square (Marktplatz)

The Old Town Square (Marktplatz) in Retz is one of the most beautiful and largest market squares in Austria, located in the Weinviertel region of Lower Austria. The square is surrounded by majestic buildings, including the Verderberhaus in Venetian Renaissance style, as well as Baroque and Biedermeier structures, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a southern Italian piazza. Retz, founded around 1300, is known as a wine town with centuries of history, and the square serves as the central hub for the "Weinstadt Retz" (Wine City).

Visitors can explore the square and its surrounding architecture, which reflects the town's rich cultural heritage. The area is part of the "Weinstraße Weinviertel," a 132-kilometer route offering vineyard experiences. A unique feature of Retz is its extensive network of underground cellars, which is denser than the road network above. The Retzer Erlebniskeller, the largest wine cellar in Central Europe, is a 21-kilometer long, 30-meter deep complex that historically stored most of the region's wine stocks. Visitors can traverse the square underground via this experience cellar, offering a glimpse into the town's winemaking history.

The square is also home to local cafes and restaurants, where visitors can sample traditional cuisine and local wines. The town is known for its wine culture, and the square is a popular spot for relaxation and socializing. Other landmarks in Retz include the town hall tower, the windmill, and various museums such as the Retz Museum and the Bicycle Museum. The combination of architectural beauty, wine culture, and historical significance makes the Old Town Square a key destination for travelers exploring the Weinviertel region.