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Fortress Hohensalzburg: A Salzburg Icon

Explore a majestic medieval fortress with stunning views of Salzburg, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history and culture.

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Dominating the Salzburg skyline, Fortress Hohensalzburg is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval castles in Europe. Built in 1077, it offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the lives of the Prince-Archbishops who once resided within its walls.

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 admission to the fortress, as well as unlimited use of public transport and access to other attractions.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Check the schedule for special events, such as the Fortress Concerts, for a unique cultural experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Kapitelplatz in the heart of Salzburg's Old Town, follow the signs towards Festung Hohensalzburg. The walk is steep and takes approximately 15-20 minutes. The path leads you directly to the fortress entrance where you can purchase your ticket. Alternatively, you can take the Festungsbahn funicular down to the Mönchsberg lift.

  • Public Transport

    From Salzburg Central Station (Salzburg Hbf), take bus line 160 to Rathaus. From there, it's a short walk through the Old Town to Festungsgasse, where you can either walk up to the fortress or take the Festungsbahn funicular. A single bus fare costs between €1-€2. The funicular is additional.

  • Funicular

    The Festungsbahn funicular departs from Festungsgasse 4, near Kapitelplatz. The ride takes less than a minute and runs every 10 minutes. A roundtrip funicular ticket costs €6.00 for adults and €2.30 for children (6-14.99 years). This price is just for the ride up and down, and does not include admission to the fortress. Combination tickets including fortress admission are available.

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Discover more about Fortress Hohensalzburg

Perched atop the Festungsberg, Fortress Hohensalzburg is a symbol of Salzburg and a testament to the power of its Prince-Archbishops. Construction began in 1077 under Archbishop Gebhard von Helfenstein, initially as a simple structure with a wooden wall. Over the centuries, it was expanded and fortified, reaching its current appearance around 1500 under Archbishop Leonhard von Keutschach. Throughout its history, Fortress Hohensalzburg has never been successfully attacked. It served as a military outpost, a prison during World War I, and even a temporary haven for Nazi activists before Austria's annexation by Germany. Today, it stands as a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors with its stunning architecture, rich history, and unparalleled views. Inside the fortress, visitors can explore various museums, including the Fortress Museum, the Marionette Museum, and the Museum of the Rainer Regiment. The Prince's Chambers showcase original furnishings from the early 16th century, offering a glimpse into the opulent lives of the archbishops. For a panoramic experience, the Panorama Tour leads to the Reckturm viewing platform, providing breathtaking views of Salzburg and the surrounding Alps. The fortress is open year-round, and can be reached either on foot or by taking the Festungsbahn funicular, operating since 1892. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply soaking in the views, Fortress Hohensalzburg offers an unforgettable experience.

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