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Fortress Hohensalzburg: Salzburg's Majestic Landmark

Explore a millennium of history at Europe's best-preserved fortress, with stunning views of Salzburg and the Alps.

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Perched atop the Festungsberg hill, Fortress Hohensalzburg is a symbol of Salzburg, Austria. This medieval castle, dating back to 1077, is one of the largest and best-preserved in Europe, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the region's history.

A brief summary to Fortress Hohensalzburg

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance to save time and avoid potential queues, especially during peak season.
  • Consider the Salzburg Card for free entry and access to public transportation, making it cost-effective if you plan to visit multiple attractions.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a fair amount of walking on cobblestones and potentially steep paths.
  • Visit on a clear day to fully appreciate the panoramic views of Salzburg and the surrounding Alps.
  • Check the schedule for concerts or events happening at the fortress to enhance your visit.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Salzburg's Old Town, the fortress is accessible on foot via Festungsgasse. The walk is steep and takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Follow the signs towards the funicular valley station; the path to the fortress begins there. Alternatively, several stepped paths ascend more directly. No costs are involved.

  • Funicular

    The Festungsbahn funicular provides a quick and easy ascent to the fortress. The valley station is located at Festungsgasse 4, a short walk from the Salzburg Cathedral. A round-trip funicular ticket is included in most fortress entry tickets. A basic ticket with funicular is around €14.50 for adults. The ride takes less than a minute and departs every 10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From Salzburg Central Station, take bus line 160 to Rathaus. From there, it's a short walk to Festungsgasse and either the funicular or the footpaths. A single bus fare is approximately €1-2. Alternatively, from Salzburg (Station), take bus line 12 to Justizgebäude B. From there it is also a short walk to the funicular or footpaths. A single bus fare is approximately €1-2.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Salzburg Central Station to Fortress Hohensalzburg costs approximately €10. The taxi will drop you off near the funicular station in Festungsgasse, from where you can either take the funicular or walk up to the fortress.

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Discover more about Fortress Hohensalzburg

Dominating Salzburg's skyline, Fortress Hohensalzburg is a testament to the power and history of the Prince-Archbishops. Construction began in 1077 under Archbishop Gebhard von Helfenstein, initially as a basic fortification. Over the centuries, it was expanded, reaching its current form around 1500 under Archbishop Leonhard von Keutschach. The fortress was built to protect the principality and demonstrate the authority of the Catholic Church. Remarkably, Fortress Hohensalzburg has never been conquered. Throughout its history, it served as a storage facility, a military outpost, and even a prison. In the late 19th century, it transitioned into a popular tourist attraction, further boosted by the opening of the funicular in 1892. Today, visitors can explore the fortress's museums, including the Fortress Museum, the Marionette Museum, and the Rainer Regiment Museum. The Princes' Chambers showcase original furnishings from the early 16th century. The fortress also hosts concerts and events, adding to its cultural significance. The panoramic views from the bastions and observation tower are a highlight, offering stunning perspectives of Salzburg and the Alps.

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