Alter Markt, Salzburg Travel Guide

Alter Markt, the Old Market Square, is located in the heart of Salzburg's Altstadt (Old Town). This historic square dates back to the 13th century and has served as a central marketplace and a hub of city life for centuries.The square is framed by impressive townhouses, many with medieval cores overlaid with early modern architecture. One notable building is Salzburg's smallest house, a mere 1.42 meters wide, nestled next to the renowned Café Tomaselli. The Old Prince-Archbishop's Court Pharmacy, dating back to the 16th century, also graces the Alter Markt.At the center of the square stands the Floriani Fountain, constructed in 1488 and enhanced with an octagonal basin between 1685 and 1687. The fountain is adorned with acanthus ornaments, rosettes, and a wrought-iron grill crafted in 1583. A statue of Saint Florian, added in 1734, tops the fountain.Today, Alter Markt is a vibrant mix of shops, cafes, and market stalls. Visitors can browse for local crafts, souvenirs, and the original Mozartkugel at Café-Konditorei Fürst, the confection's birthplace. Café Tomaselli, one of the oldest coffeehouses in Central Europe, offers a taste of Viennese café culture.