The Historic Centre of Salzburg
North of the Alps close to the western border between Austria and Germany along the Salzach River, lies the city of Salzburg, home to Mozart and famous for it’s baroque architecture.
The left bank of the Salzach River contains the Old City, dominated by the Mönchsberg mountain, atop of which are fortifications whose ancent walls have defended the city since the 13th century. The Festung Hohensalzburg - a dominating medieval castle and one of Europe's largest, was significant in defending Salzburg during the Thirty Years War when the fortress was strengthened, but was later surrendered during the Napoleonic Wars. During World War I it was used to house Italian prisoners-of-war.
Occupied since Roman times Salzburg has preserved a variety of building styles reflecting Salzburg’s history and culture from the Middle Age, Romanesque, Baroque and Renaissance periods and into the 19th Century. Landmarks include a number of town squares. Residence Square, the Old Market, University Square and Mozart Square are all significant. Outstanding buildings include the Cathedral, the Hohensalzburg Fortress, the Residenz and St Peter’s Monastery. |
Much of the Old City is a pedestrian zone, ideal for walking and window shopping. |
Salzburg as a tourist destination is popular in both winter and summer, with unique natural attractions, the beauty of the "Old City" and the greater city with it's restaurants, festivals and events.
Icon Holidays can arrange your visit to Salzburg with our range of superb hotels to choose from, private transfers and our personal recommendations to help you enjoy this outstanding destination.
