Metzen, Feldbach

The Steinerne Metzen stands in the heart of Feldbach, a town in south-eastern Styria. It is a historic hollow measure carved from local basalt tuff and mounted on an octagonal pedestal. The piece dates from the 15th century and once served as the standard measure for grain across much of eastern Styria. For centuries it was called the ‘Feldbach measure’ and held fifty-five litres. Before the metric system replaced local units, the Metzen embodied the region’s push for uniform weights and measures. The stone block’s kelch shape and dark tuff contrast with the pale stone base, making it a striking landmark. Visitors find the monument on Feldbach’s main square, close to the former town hall which now houses the music school. The square itself was redesigned in 2001 and the restored Metzen placed at its centre. The piece was later adopted into the town’s coat of arms in 2016, confirming its status as Feldbach’s emblem.