Hallein, town, north-central Austria, on the Salzach River just south of Salzburg city. Founded in the 12th century and chartered in 1230, Hallein profited from the nearby Dürrnberg saltworks, in operation since the 13th century. Old landmarks include the Classical parish church (15th century), the town hall (1601), the pilgrimage church (1594–1612) in Dürrnberg, and parts of the medieval town wall. Hallein has a museum with Celtic and Roman antiquities and a school for wood-carvers and stonemasons. The town manufactures salt, shoes, cosmetics, tobacco products, chemicals, cellulose, paper, and motors and is becoming increasingly known as a health and winter-sports resort. Franz Gruber, the composer of the Christmas carol “Stille Nacht, Heilige Nacht” (“Silent Night, Holy Night”), lived there. Pop. (2006) 19,012.