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Fortress Hohensalzburg: Salzburg's Majestic Landmark

Explore Fortress Hohensalzburg, one of Europe's best-preserved medieval castles, offering panoramic views & a glimpse into Salzburg's rich history.

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Perched atop the Festungsberg, Fortress Hohensalzburg is a symbol of Salzburg, Austria. This well-preserved medieval fortress, dating back to 1077, offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the city's history and the power of its prince-archbishops.

A brief summary to Fortress Hohensalzburg

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance to save time and potentially money, especially during peak season.
  • Consider the Salzburg Card for free entry to the fortress and access to public transportation.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
  • Check the schedule for special events like concerts or guided tours to enhance your visit.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Kapitelplatz in the Old Town, follow the signs towards the Festungsbahn funicular. Instead of taking the funicular, continue past it to find a steep, paved path leading up to the fortress. The walk takes about 15-30 minutes and offers scenic views along the way. Note that the path is steep and may not be suitable for everyone.

  • Public Transport

    From Salzburg Central Station (Salzburg Hbf), take bus line 160 to Rathaus. From Rathaus, walk through Getreidegasse, via Alter Markt, Residenzplatz, Domplatz and Kapitelplatz to Festungsgasse. From there, you can take the FestungsBahn or walk up to Fortress Hohensalzburg. A single bus fare is approximately €1-€2. Alternatively, from Salzburg (Station) take the line 12 bus from Salzburg Vogelweiderstraße to Salzburg Justizgebäude B. The bus departs every 20 minutes, and the journey takes approximately 13 min.

  • Funicular

    The Festungsbahn funicular is located at Festungsgasse 4, a short walk from Kapitelplatz. The funicular runs every 10 minutes and takes less than a minute to reach the top. A round-trip ticket is included with most fortress entry tickets. A basic ticket with funicular is around €14.50 for adults. Be prepared for potential queues, especially during peak season.

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Discover more about Fortress Hohensalzburg

Fortress Hohensalzburg, a mighty medieval castle, dominates the skyline of Salzburg, offering visitors a captivating blend of history, architecture, and stunning views. Built in 1077 by Archbishop Gebhard von Helfenstein, the fortress has been expanded over the centuries, becoming one of the largest and best-preserved medieval castles in Europe. Originally constructed to protect the principality and its archbishops, the fortress has never been conquered. Its walls and strategic hilltop location ensured its invincibility throughout the years. Around 1500, under Archbishop Leonhard von Keutschach, the fortress took on its present appearance. Keutschach's coat of arms, featuring a turnip, can be found throughout the fortress as a symbol of his extensive building activity. Today, visitors can explore the fortress's many attractions, including the Fortress Museum, which showcases historical exhibits related to the prince-archbishops' lives. The Marionette Museum displays exhibits from the Salzburg Marionette Theatre, while the Rainer Regiment Museum focuses on the history of the Salzburg infantry regiment. The Princes' Chambers, dating back to 1501/1502, feature original furnishings and impressive decorations. A panorama tour leads visitors to the Reckturm tower's viewing platform, offering beautiful views of the city. Hohensalzburg Fortress is more than just a historical landmark; it's a versatile venue that hosts the Salzburg Fortress Concerts and other special events. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply breathtaking views, a visit to Fortress Hohensalzburg is an unforgettable experience.

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