Carinthia Castles & Poetry Featured on ORF 2

Sunday morning lineup celebrates Austrian culture and history

This Sunday, July 13th, ORF 2 invites viewers to explore the cultural richness of Carinthia, Austria’s southernmost state, with a special “Matinee” program featuring noble residences and a portrait of poet Christine Lavant.

A Tour of Carinthia’s Noble Estates

At 9:05 a.m., “Carinthia’s Most Beautiful Noble Seats – Shine and Splendor of Stately Living” showcases the region’s magnificent castles. Constructed largely in the 16th and 17th centuries, these estates replaced medieval castles as symbols of power, reflecting the status of noble families.

The documentary, by Gernot Stadler, features current owners guiding viewers through their castles and grounds, sharing stories of past inhabitants and the challenges of preserving these cultural monuments. Featured locations include Maria-Loretto, Hallegg, Tentschach, Welzenegg, Ebenthal and Velden Castle, known from the ORF series “A Castle on Lake Wörthersee.”

Spotlight on Poet Christine Lavant

Following at 10 a.m. is “Christine Lavant – How Punctually the Despair Is,” a film portrait of the celebrated Carinthian poet, born Christine Thonhauser. The film explores Lavant’s life and work, highlighting her socially critical perspective and her exploration of human suffering and resilience.

Lavant, born in 1915, is recognized as one of the most important voices in 20th-century German-language literature. Her work delves into themes of poverty, illness, social injustice, and the power of love and imagination. According to the Austrian literature database, her work gained wider recognition posthumously and continues to be studied and celebrated onb.ac.at.

Director Danielle Proskar’s 2023 film, created for the 50th anniversary of Lavant’s death, seeks to uncover the person behind the pseudonym. Actress Gerti Drassl portrays Christine Lavant, bringing her words and experiences to life.

Art like mine is only mutilated life, as Lavant herself claimed. The film draws on Lavant’s extensive correspondence to create a personal portrait of the artist.

The Kulturwoche

Concluding the ORF culture morning at 10:50 a.m., “The Kulturwoche,” moderated by Teresa Vogl, delivers current reports and tips on cultural events.