Historic Hahndorf

Hahndorf was settled in 1839 by Lutheran migrants from Prussia who traveled to South Australia on the the ship the Zebra captained by the Captain Dirk Hahn, who was responsible for acquiring the land.

On arrival and inspection, the migrants were so pleased and impressed they named their village Hahndorf in his honour.

German influence is very apparent in Hahndorf and is seen physically in the traditional fachwerk architecture of the original surviving buildings and culturally in the many food manufacturers and restaurants serving German cuisine.

During the First World War the Federal Government changed many German place names.

The name Hahndorf was changed to Ambleside, and this remained until 1935, when it reverted to Hahndorf. There are still references to the name Ambleside in and around the town today.

Today, Hahndorf is a premier South Australian tourist destination where visitors can immerse themselves in the unique culture of the town, enjoy the local arts and crafts and visit the surrounding Adelaide Hills attractions.

St Michael's, founded in 1839 is the oldest Lutheran church in Australia to still have a worshipping congregation on its original church site.