The Sculpture Park in Markt Neuhodis is vying to represent Burgenland in Austria's prestigious "9 Places 9 Treasures" television competition. This unique cultural destination, located in the Oberwart district, offers a special attraction not only for modern art enthusiasts but for all visitors seeking an extraordinary cultural experience.
The sculpture park surrounds an 18th-century castle that was once owned by the Hungarian noble Batthyany family. In the late 1960s, Vienna-based sculptor Rudolf Kedl discovered the deteriorating, ruined building. The internationally celebrated artist, originally from nearby Stadtschlaining in Burgenland, was moved to return to his homeland. Together with his wife Christine Elefant-Kedl, a watercolor painter, Kedl acquired Castle Neuhodis.
In 1967, the year their son Talos was born, the artistic couple began the extensive renovation of the monument-protected structure, creating a refuge for both work and life. To this day, almost all rooms of the historic building are dedicated to the artistic creations of the Kedl family, richly filled with works spanning several decades.
Rudolf Kedl was one of Austria's most significant sculptors of his time. A graduate of Fritz Wotruba's master class at the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna, he received countless international awards throughout his career. Kedl represented Austria twice at the Venice Art Biennale, in 1966 and 1976.
In the early 1970s, the Kedls realized their dream of creating a publicly accessible open-air gallery. They wanted to offer free admission to art for all interested visitors, opening both their house and garden to the public. The castle's surrounding parkland spans approximately five hectares, transforming into a massive exhibition space. Rudolf Kedl positioned his bronze sculptures and symmetrical stone pillars among the trees, where art and nature don't compete but correspond and complement each other.
The estate soon evolved into a cultural center hosting poetry readings, theater performances, concerts, and exhibitions. It became a magical place that attracts visitors who otherwise have little interest in contemporary art, creating an accessible environment for artistic appreciation.
From 2010 onwards, son Talos expanded the sculpture park by adding an art meadow. Talos Kedl also became a sculptor, learning the craft from his father while developing his own distinctive style. Unlike Rudolf Kedl's works, the son's art forms are asymmetrical and mysterious, offering new perspectives and surprises from every angle. Touching and experiencing the works is not only permitted but actively encouraged by the artist.
The Sculpture Park Markt Neuhodis and its connected art meadow remain open year-round. Visitors can enter and explore the grounds at any time without prior registration. The park features trees up to 300 years old and houses several botanical sensations, including a giant sequoia standing next to the old castle – the largest in Burgenland.
Today, Talos Kedl and his mother Christine Elefant-Kedl live and work in Vienna and southern Burgenland. The sculpture park's founder, Rudolf Kedl, passed away in Markt Neuhodis in 1991, leaving behind a lasting artistic legacy.
This year, ORF is again searching for Austria's most beautiful hidden place through its prime-time show "9 Places 9 Treasures," scheduled for October 25. Each federal state must first select one finalist from three proposals. In Burgenland, the competition includes the Sculpture Park Markt Neuhodis, Jois on Lake Neusiedl, and the moor in Rohr.
Voting for the Burgenland representative begins on September 26 at 7:00 PM and closes on October 1 at 11:59 PM. The winner will be announced on October 6. Supporters can vote by calling or texting 0901 05 909 01, with each call or SMS costing 50 cents and limited to 100 votes per day per phone number.
