„Servus“ is derived from the Latin word for „servant“
or „slave.“ In Roman times, it was a polite
way of expressing, „I am at your service“, conveying
humility and respect. Over time, it evolved into a
friendly and informal greeting in many regions influenced
by Roman culture, including Austria.
Scharnitz, located at the entrance to the Karwendel
Mountains, was historically significant as a Roman
settlement and a strategic passage along the Via
Raetia, a trade and military route connecting Italy
with the northern provinces. Romans likely used
„Servus“ or similar terms during interactions in the
region, as it was part of their linguistic and cultural
norms.
Did you know? The so-called Sustainable Development
Goal 11 is called ‘Sustainable Cities and Communities‘.
The continuity of using „Servus“ reflects the
goal‘s preservation of cultural heritage, which is a
key aspect of building sustainable communities.
Scharnitz has a rich cultural heritage, for example
its municiopal coat of arms represents the so-called
Porta Claudia as a fortification during the Thirty
Years‘ War and the entrance to Tyrol. Scharnitz,
located in the narrow valley between the Karwendel
and Wetterstein mountains, was perfectly suited for
a national fortress. During the Thirty Years‘ War,
under the regency of Claudia de‘ Medici, the most
significant of these fortifications, the Porta Claudia,
was constructed.
You can visit its ruins still today:
Adress: Innsbruckerstra.e 46, 6108 Scharnitz