Franz von Taxis is considered the founder of the modern postal system. On behalf of the far-flung Habsburg family dynasty, he and his successors set up a courier network that would eventually grow to cover all of Western Europe by the mid-16th century.

Permanent post stations were built about one day's journey apart. Over time, these stations grew into important economic centers, serving as meeting points and places of trade and exchange where travelers could expect to find taverns, inns and stables. Post stations became crucial focal points in the development of villages and cities.