Salzburg
Salzburg by night
Salzburg, the capital city of the north central Austrian federal state
of Salzburg, is situated near the foothills of the Alps and the border
with Germany, about 270 km (170 miles) west of Vienna. The city's population
is about 140000. Salzburg's name is derived from the area's rich salt
deposits. Gold, silver, and copper are mined in the area.
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Tourists visit Salzburg not only for the beautiful scenery of the surrounding
Salzach Valley but also by the city's architectural and cultural assets.
The town is dominated by the large and well-preserved fortress of Hohensalzburg
(1077). The Abbey of Saint Peter and the Convent of Nonnberg, founded
about 700 and remodeled in the 15th century, are also noteworthy.
The Festspielhaus
Salzburg's present architectural splendor is largely the result of extensive
building by the prince-archbishops and wealthy burghers of the 16th-18th
centuries. These buildings show such an Italianate influence that Salzburg
has been called the "German Rome." Above all, the city is known
for its musical heritage. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born and composed
in Salzburg. His birth place is in the well known Getreidegasse. The annual
Salzburg Festival of music, attracts travelers from many countries to
performances of chamber music, drama, and opera.
An international convention center and six museums also attract many
visitors.
Other interesting sights not mentioned above include the rococo
Schloss Leopoldskron (1736), the Mirabellgarten is probably one
of the most beautiful gardens in the world and Hellbrunn Palace,
in the vicinity of Salzburg, with its fascinating water games.
Hellbrunn palace
Hotels in Salzburg: 5
Star Hotels, 4 Star Hotels,
3 Star Hotels
Pictures: Austrian National Tourist Office
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