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Freyschlösschen: A Fairytale Fortress on the Mönchsberg

A picturesque, castle-like landmark on the Mönchsberg offering stunning views of Salzburg's Old Town, though only viewable from the exterior.

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The Freyschlösschen, originally a medieval tower, crowns the Mönchsberg in Salzburg. Renovated in neo-Gothic style in the late 19th century, this charming, castle-like structure offers stunning city views and a glimpse into Salzburg's architectural history. While the building is private and not open to the public, its exterior and setting provide a picturesque experience.

A brief summary to Freyschlösschen, Mönchsberg, Salzburg

Local tips

  • Enjoy the views of Freyschlösschen from various points on the Mönchsberg, especially along the trails near the Museum der Moderne.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the Museum der Moderne for a blend of historical and contemporary culture.
  • Take advantage of the walking paths on Mönchsberg for scenic photo opportunities of the city and the fortress.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Salzburg city center (e.g., near the Rathaus or Kapitelplatz), follow signs towards the Mönchsberg. Ascend the Mönchsberg via one of the walking paths. The path from the Festung Hohensalzburg is a particularly scenic option. Once on Mönchsberg, follow the signs towards Museum der Moderne; the Freyschlösschen is a short walk from there. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus to the 'Ferdinand-Hanusch-Platz' or 'MönchsbergAufzug' bus stop. From either stop, walk uphill following signs for the Mönchsberg and Museum der Moderne. The Freyschlösschen is a short walk from the museum. A single bus ticket within Salzburg city costs approximately €2.50-€3.00.

  • Taxi

    Take a taxi to the MönchsbergAufzug (Mönchsberg Lift) valley station at Gstättengasse 13. From there, ascend the Mönchsberg via the lift (€4.10 single ride). Upon exiting the lift at the top, follow the signs to Museum der Moderne; the Freyschlösschen is nearby. A short taxi ride from Salzburg Hbf to the lift station will cost approximately €7-€10.

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Discover more about Freyschlösschen, Mönchsberg, Salzburg

Perched atop the Mönchsberg, the Freyschlösschen, also known as the Roter Turm (Red Tower), presents a captivating sight. Its origins trace back to 1380 when it was erected as a medieval tower, forming part of Salzburg's early city defenses and securing the link between Mönchsberg and Festungsberg. In 1862, Carl von Frey, a merchant, acquired the tower, transforming it into his residence with extensive renovations and modernizations. His son, Max von Frey, a doctor with a penchant for historicism, further expanded the property in the neo-Gothic style, giving it the fairytale castle appearance it largely retains today. By this time, the tower was already known as Freyschlössl. Although the Freyschlösschen is privately owned and inaccessible to the public, its exterior remains a striking landmark. Visitors can admire its unique architecture and enjoy panoramic views of Salzburg's Old Town, including the Hohensalzburg Fortress and the Salzach River. The surrounding area offers pleasant walking trails, allowing visitors to appreciate the building'sIntegration into the natural landscape of the Mönchsberg.

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