In 1985, 496 paintings, 146 drawings, watercolors, prints and sculptures and thousands of books and other items that the Allies had recovered after World War II and turned over to the Austrian authorities so that they could return them to their rightful owners were found to be still stored in Mauerbach. Visits had not been allowed and the list had not been published. Investigative news articlesrevealed the cache of artworks and caused a scandal.