The first settlement in the area dates back to 5000 before Christ. The buildings erected there during the time of the principalities (the 13th century) are evidence that the town has already existed. However, it was not until the 18th century, and also in the 19th and early 20th century that the town developed rapidly. Evidence for this are the Islamic monuments and contemporary commercial and office buildings. The residential houses represent a fine selection of traditional half-timber houses of the 19th and early 20th century. The town is also famous for its traditional handcrafts and scenic nature. Its mountains, lakes, rivers and the winter sports centre attract many visitors.