Mozartplatz Travel Guide

Mozartplatz, located in the heart of Salzburg's Altstadt (Old Town), is a tribute to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, the city's most famous son. The square, initially named Michaelsplatz, dates back to the early 17th century. Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau initiated a redevelopment project that led to the demolition of several houses to create the square.Originally, a baroque fountain with a statue of St. Michael stood in the square's center. However, in 1842, the Mozart Monument, crafted by Ludwig Schwanthaler, was unveiled, linking the plaza to the composer's legacy. The unveiling was planned for 1841, the 50th anniversary of Mozart's death, but was delayed due to the discovery of a Roman mosaic during construction. The mosaic, bearing the inscription "hic habitat (felicitas), nihil intret mali" – "Here lives (happiness), let nothing evil enter" – was preserved, and a copy can still be seen at the statue's base. King Ludwig I of Bavaria donated the marble pedestal.Mozartplatz is surrounded by historically significant buildings. The Imhofstöckl, on the north side, houses the city's tourist information office. Behind it lies a section of the old city wall from the time of Prince-Archbishop Paris Lodron (1619–1653). Opposite the Imhofstöckl is the Neue Residenz (New Residence), home to the Salzburg Museum since 2007, showcasing Salzburg's art and cultural history. Mozartplatz 8 was once the home of Constanze Mozart-Nissen, Mozart's widow. On the west side are the Salzburg Christmas Museum and Café Glockenspiel.