town, southeast-central Austria, at the confluence of the Mürz and Thörlbach rivers just northeast of Bruck. Founded around a fortress in the late 12th century, it was first mentioned in 1256. It had ironworks as early as the 15th century. Kapfenberg is resort town, has important steelworks, and manufactures cable, chemicals, and building materials. In the late 20th century Kapfenberg modernized and expanded its retail and service businesses. Pop. (2006 est.) 22,031.