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Ursulinenplatz: A Baroque Square in Salzburg's Heart

Discover Ursulinenplatz in Salzburg: a serene square where Baroque architecture meets rich history and cultural charm.

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Ursulinenplatz is a charming square in Salzburg's Old Town, named after the Ursuline nuns who had a convent here from the late 17th century until the 1970s. Dominated by the Markuskirche (St. Mark's Church) and surrounded by historic burgher houses built into the Mönchsberg cliffs, it offers a peaceful retreat with architectural splendor.

A brief summary to Ursulinenplatz

  • Ursulinenpl. 5020, Salzburg, 5020, AT

Local tips

  • Visit Markuskirche: Step inside this Baroque church to admire its stunning interior, including elaborate stucco work and colorful frescoes.
  • Explore the Mönchsberg Cliffs: Look closely at the burgher houses built into the cliffs and learn about the 1669 rockfall that shaped the area.
  • Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere: Take a break from the crowds and relax on a bench, soaking in the square's serene ambiance.
  • Walk along Gstättengasse: Explore the narrow street leading to Ursulinenplatz, lined with historic buildings and charming shops.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Salzburg Cathedral (Dom zu Salzburg) in the historic center, exit onto Universitätsplatz and walk straight towards the University of Salzburg. Continue on the road until you reach the intersection with Ursulinenplatz. Turn left onto Ursulinenplatz, and you will find the square ahead. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes and offers views of the city's historic architecture. No cost.

  • Public Transport

    From Salzburg Hauptbahnhof (main train station), take bus line 2 towards 'Salzburg Aigen'. Get off at the 'Ursulinenplatz' stop. The bus ride takes approximately 15 minutes. A single ticket costs around €2.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Salzburg Hauptbahnhof to Ursulinenplatz will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between €10-€15. Ask the driver to drop you off directly at Ursulinenplatz.

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Discover more about Ursulinenplatz

Ursulinenplatz, nestled in the heart of Salzburg's historic Old Town, is a captivating square that showcases the city's rich architectural heritage and cultural history. The square derives its name from the Ursuline nuns, who established a convent here in 1695 and played a significant role in Salzburg's educational and religious life. They remained until the 1970s when they relocated to Aigen. The square is visually dominated by the Markuskirche, also known as St. Mark's Church or the Ursulinenkirche. This Baroque masterpiece, constructed in the early 18th century, boasts an elegant facade and a richly decorated interior. Originally the church of the Ursuline convent, it now serves the Ukrainian Greek-Catholic community of Salzburg, creating a unique blend of Western and Eastern Christian traditions. On the opposite side of Ursulinenplatz, a row of beautifully preserved burgher houses nestles against the base of the Mönchsberg, the mountain that looms over Salzburg. These houses, built directly into the cliffs, showcase a range of architectural styles and add to the square's unique character. The Nagelschmiedhaus, dating back to 1553, is a particularly noteworthy example, having survived a catastrophic rockfall in 1669 that devastated much of the area. Until 1962, Ursulinenplatz was considered a continuation of the Gstättengasse. The square's unique character and historical significance eventually led to its formal designation as Ursulinenplatz. Today, geologists regularly monitor the cliffs of the Mönchsberg to prevent future rockfalls, ensuring the safety of residents and visitors alike.

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