Klagenfurt Styria formed the British occupation zone in liberated Austria, a state of affairs which lasted until 26 October 1955. In 1961, Klagenfurt became the first city in Austria to adopt a pedestrian zone. The idea of a friendly twinning of cities in other countries that had started with the very first ever city partnership - Klagenfurt and Wiesbaden, Germany, as early as 1930 - was followed up by numerous city partnerships with the result that in 1968 Klagenfurt was honoured with the title of a "European City of the Year". Three times, a European record, Klagenfurt was also awarded the
Klagenfurt prestigious Europa Nostra Diploma of Merit for the exemplary restoration and redevelopment of its ancient centre. In 1973, Klagenfurt absorbed four more adjacent municipalities - Viktring with its grand Cistercian monastery, Wölfnitz, Hörtendorf, and St. Peter am Bichl, increasing the population of Klagenfurt to about 90,000. As of January 2018, there were 100,316 people whose principal residence was in Klagenfurt. The Old City with its central "Alter Platz" (Old Square) and the Renaissance buildings with their charming arcaded courtyards is a major attraction. Notable landmarks also include: Klagenfurt is the economic centre of Carinthia, with 20% of the industrial companies.