Salzburg: A Land of Music
Salzburg, one of the biggest cities in Austria, sits between the German border and the Austrian Alps. There is a lot to see and hear in Salzburg: from the music of Mozart, to the sounds of Julie Andrews singing in the streets, and to the modern-day arts and music scene, the city captures the best of old and new. Whether you are viewing the Alps from your hotel window or exploring the Baroque architecture of Mozart’s time, you will find that the city and the hills are alive with the sound of music.
Finding Religion
If you are interested in religious art and architecture, there is a lot to see in Salzburg. Many of the hotels in Salzburg are close to religious sites spread throughout the city. Salzburg Cathedral, or Salzburger Dom, a beautiful example of Italian style art and architecture in the city. There is also the Cathedral Museum where you can find many religious artefacts, paintings, and statues. St. Peter’s Abbey and Nonnberg Abbey both offer glimpses into early Christianity in the city as they capture what life was like for early nuns and priests. St. Peter’s Abbey is one of the oldest of the German-speaking countries and has records dating back to 696. St. Peter’s Cemetery, part of Nonnberg Abbey, features catacombs from the year 700. It is the oldest cemetery in Salzburg. If you are in the mood for more architecture, Salzburg also has three other well-known churches: St. Peter’s Church, The Franciscan Church, and St. Sebastian’s Church.
A Bit of Old Salzburg Luxury
One thing that makes Salzburg unique is its connection to Mozart. Here in the city, you can find Mozart’s birthplace, now turned into a museum with various items from his life, the Mozart Residence, the Mozart Monument, and Mozartplatz. All these areas celebrate the famed composer who was born in the city. It may come as no surprise, but as you walk around the city you may even hear Mozart’s music as well as see his face on candies and other objects. Along with Mozart, Salzburg is also known for its castles. Schloss Hohensalzburg, Schloss Mirabell, and Schloss Hellbrunn all offer stunning views and beautiful gardens. Schloss Hohensalzburg sits on a hill overlooking the city and is one of the largest medieval castles in Europe. The gardens of Schloss Mirabell feature geometrically-shaped areas with themed statues of figures from mythology. These gardens are where Maria and the children say ‘Do-Re-Mi’ in The Sound of Music. If you head to Hellbrunn, make sure you don’t mind getting wet. The park surrounding the palace is famous for its trick fountains, hidden from visitors, just waiting to spray them. While your hotel may not be a castle, there are so many castles in the area, you might even begin to think you are living in one.
More of Salzburg’s Music
Salzburg is not only known for Mozart, but also for music festivals and the classic film, The Sound of Music. Many of the film’s most famous scenes were filmed in the city and you can go on a Sound of Music tour to make sure you see them all. The history of music in the city is also represented by the Festspielhäuser or Festival Theatres. These theatres held many of Salzburg’s musical events over the years and display the importance of music to the citizens of Salzburg. Some of the best theatres to visit are Festspielhaus , Karl-Böhm Hall , and Haus für Mozart . While not all of them continue to hold music events, there are some that do. You can also go to see the beautiful architecture and the frescos dating back to the 17th century. For a different type of theatre, try the Salzburg Marionette Theatre. Established in 1913, it is one of the oldest marionette theatres in the world. It still performs a variety of operas and ballets, all with marionettes.
A Step Back in Time
If you are looking to leave the modern comforts of your hotel and step back in time, Salzburg offers many opportunities. The Salzburg Old Town, Altstadt , offers many insights into what life used to be like long ago. The Old City Hall, Altes Rathaus , Old Market, Alter Markt , Salzburg Fortress, Festung Hohensalzburg , and the Residenzplatz all capture the essence of Salzburg, as if you had lived here many years ago. Here you can not only find architecture, but many artefacts, paintings, and other everyday items that people used during those times. The Residenz , built between 1596 and 1619, is the former residence of the Prince Bishops. Now it is a piece of history, holding various pieces of art and furniture. The city is able to still give you a sense of how old it is and of its long history with its beautiful old buildings.
Climb Every Mountain
As you are flying into the airport, it will be hard to miss the Austrian Alps. A trip to Salzburg would not be complete without seeing what Julie Andrews was singing about. You will be able to discover just how much the hills are alive with music if you get on your hiking gear and head outside the city and start climbing. Mönchsberg and Kapuzinerberg are two great options for good hiking and good views of the city and the surrounding area. Start planning now and get your chance to see all sides of Salzburg.