Lobau facts for kids
Quick facts for kids National Reserve Lobau |
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Lobau (north of the Danube river) and Vienna Airport in Schwechat
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| Geography | |
| Location | Wien, Groß-Enzersdorf, Austria |
| Coordinates | 48°11′00″N 16°31′00″E / 48.183333°N 16.516667°E |
| Area | 22 km2 (8.5 sq mi) |
| Administration | |
| Status | UNESCO's Biosphere reserve |
| Ecology | |
| Official name: Untere Lobau | |
| Designated: | 16 December 1982 |
| Reference #: | 273 |
The Lobau (German pronunciation: [loˈbaʊ̯]) is a special floodplain area in Vienna, Austria. It is located on the northern side of the Danube river. Parts of it are in the Donaustadt district and some in Großenzersdorf, Lower Austria.
Since 1996, the Lobau has been part of the Danube-Auen National Park. It has been a protected area since 1978. People enjoy visiting Lobau for fun and relaxation. It is also known for its unique nature. There is an oil harbour here. The Austrian Army also used parts of Lobau for training. The Lobau is a key source of groundwater for Vienna. This water helps supply the city with fresh tapwater.
The Donauinsel (Vienna Danube Island) is right next to the Lobau.
Contents
A Look Back: Lobau's History
The Lobau has seen important historical events. In 1809, two major battles took place here.
Battles of 1809
The Battle of Aspern-Essling happened in Lobau in 1809. This was the first big defeat for Napoleon. An Austrian army, led by Archduke Charles, won this battle. Two months later, the Battle of Wagram took place. This time, Napoleon's army was victorious.
Lobau During World War II
During World War II, the Lobau oil refinery was bombed. This began on August 22, 1944.
Why Lobau is Important for Nature
The Lobau is very important for the environment. It helps provide water and protects many living things.
Lobau and Vienna's Water Supply
The Lobau plays a big role in Vienna's water. It is one of the main places that provides groundwater for the city. This water comes from the Alps through special pipelines.
Protecting Plants and Animals
The Lobau is home to many different species of plants (flora) and animals (fauna). Many of these species are in danger of disappearing. Because of this, the Lobau has been a protected area since 1978.
Lobau's Special Status
Since 1977, the Lobau has been a biosphere reserve. This means UNESCO recognizes it as a special place. It covers about 1,037 hectares (2,560 acres). This area is also part of the Danube-Auen National Park since 1996. It is also a protected Ramsar site since 1982. This means it is an important wetland.
The Lobau is made up of different natural zones. About 25% of these zones are actively managed and cared for. The Lobau covers about one-fifth of Vienna's 22nd district.
Amazing Plants and Animals
The Lobau has an amazing variety of plants and animals. However, some are at risk due to environmental issues. This is why protecting the Lobau is so important.
The Common Reed Bed
The Josefsteg is a wooden bridge in the middle of the Lobau. About 150 years ago, this area was part of the Danube riverbed. The bridge is about 100-metre-long (330 ft). It shows how humans have interacted with this natural area.
A great example of Lobau's plant life is the reed bed. Large areas around the Josefsteg are covered in reeds. The common reed, called Phragmites australis, is a very common plant. It grows in many parts of the world. It is a type of grass that grows year after year.
Images for kids
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Lobau (north of the Danube river) and Vienna Airport in Schwechat
