Stories from the Untersberg
Emperor Karl
I am Karl, emperor of a great empire. Many called me the “Emperor of Peace,” for my greatest wish had always been to bring order, justice, and peace to the land. But my time in the world of humans was not yet over when fate led me to a mysterious place.
Deep within the Untersberg, I now rest alongside my most loyal knights and warriors. Immense caves and endless passageways surround us, hidden from the eyes of the world. In a large marble chamber, I am sitting at a massive table made of Untersberg marble. The little Untersberg Mandln—dwarf-like guardians full of loyalty and wisdom—protect my sleep and watch over me and my entourage.
The years fly by as if they were just a few moments. While I sleep, my copper-colored beard keeps growing until it eventually winds itself several times around the heavy marble tabletop.
A whole century passes before I open my eyes again. Then I slowly get to my feet and ask the same question every time: “Do the ravens still fly over the summit of the Untersberg?” If I receive the answer, “Yes, Mr. Kaiser, they are still there,” then I know that humanity’s time has not yet come. Then I close my eyes once more, and my knights sink back with me into a deep, hundred-year slumber. But I know that one day everything will be different.
When not a single raven can be seen flying over the mountain, the sign will have been fulfilled. Then I will rise, take up my sword, and gather my army. Together, we will leave the Untersberg and march to Walserfeld, where a massive battle will decide the fate of the country. That is where I will face my enemies.
If I manage to win, I will hang my coat of arms on the pear tree in Walserfeld—that wondrous tree that keeps growing back, no matter how many times it is cut down. Until that day comes, I will continue to rest in the heart of the Untersberg. The little men keep a faithful watch, my knights sleep by my side, and after every century, I ask again for the sign. For only when the ravens have disappeared will my time have come!
Stories
Experience the Untersberg at its most exciting: We’ll join the staff of the Untersbergbahn as they go about their daily work, discover the mountain’s diverse wildlife, and listen to the fascinating legends that have surrounded the Untersberg for centuries. Along the way, we’ll enjoy regional specialties and the unique atmosphere of the mountains.
