Pfarrkirchen bei Bad Hall Tassiloquelle

The Tassiloquelle is a protected iodine-saline spring on the edge of the Kurpark in Bad Hall, Upper Austria. It sits just east of the Sulzbach stream, which marks the boundary between the parishes of Pfarrkirchen and Bad Hall. The source is one of the strongest iodine-saline springs in Central Europe and the oldest of its kind along the Sulzbach. Since ancient times it has been known as a salt source and was used for salt production. Today its water is still used to treat skin diseases.

The spring rises from a fracture in the Tertiary sediments of the Molasse trough near the northern edge of the Alps. Deep groundwater from the Puchkirchen and Haller layers carries dissolved iodides and bromides formed from ancient sea-water. Radiometric tests show traces of radon, radium, uranium and thorium in the water. The total mineral content reaches 14.6 grams per litre.

Visitors find the spring in a small landscaped area beside the Sulzbach. The water flows freely from the rock and is channelled into a shallow basin. Informative panels explain the geological origins and healing uses of the iodine-saline water. The surrounding park offers benches and shaded paths for quiet contemplation of the stream and the Alpine foothills beyond.