Household goods made of wood

An Italian Habsburg as a benefactor

Maximilian Joseph, the third son of Archduke Ferdinand and Maria Beatrix d'Este is a great benefactor and supporting the poor of Altmünster is particularly close to his heart. And he cares for the local economy. When, in the course of the revolutions and political turmoil of 1848, sales of Viechtauer plate and spoon makers' products almost come to a standstill, the Duke buys up all the products. After the economic situation improves, he gives them to the Neukirchen home workers.

Maximilian's generosity is also evident in the creation of the independent municipality of Altmünster in the mid-19th century. As there was neither money nor buildings to fall back on, Maximilian offered to make a room in his castle available as a municipal office. In addition, he buys a house in Ebenzweierstraße and gives it to the municipality by deed of trust. The citizens even unanimously elect him mayor. However, he refuses this due to his advanced age and other obligations.

Maximilian Joseph Habsburg d'Este dies in 1863 and is buried in Altmünster. Thousands of people follow the funeral procession to pay their last respects. Because of his many charitable deeds, he goes down in history as one of the most popular Habsburgs.