This annual Christmas Market has its origins over seven centuries ago when Emperor Albrecht I, at the end of the 13th century, granted the privilege of organizing a "Dezembermarkt". The Market now attracts 3 million visitors each year, more then 500.000 from abroad. Every Christmas need is catered for, from sweets to decorations, to toys and kitsch presents. From mid-November to Christmas the luminous decorations, fairground rides, kids workshops, Glühwein and punch are the attractions, and a giant outdoor ice-rink is constructed for New Year. A truly magical place to visit.