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Fortress Hohensalzburg: Salzburg's Majestic Landmark

Explore a majestic medieval fortress with panoramic views of Salzburg, offering a glimpse into centuries of history and architectural brilliance.

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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 by Archbishop Gebhard I von Helfenstein, it has been expanded over the centuries and never conquered. Today, it offers visitors a glimpse into the past with stunning panoramic views.

A brief summary to Fortress Hohensalzburg

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid potential queues, especially during peak season.
  • Consider the Salzburg Card for free admission to the fortress and unlimited use of public transport.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a bit of walking involved, especially if you choose to walk up to the fortress.
  • Visit on a clear day to fully appreciate the panoramic views of Salzburg and the Alps.
  • Allow at least half a day to fully explore the fortress and its museums.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Salzburg Old Town, the fortress is about a 15-20 minute walk uphill. Start from Kapitelplatz, located near the Salzburg Cathedral, and follow the signs towards Festung Hohensalzburg. The path leads you through Festungsgasse to the funicular valley station. Alternatively, continue along the winding road or the stepped path to the fortress entrance. Note that the walk is steep and requires a moderate level of fitness.

  • Funicular

    The Festungsbahn funicular provides a quick and easy way to reach the fortress. The valley station is located in Festungsgasse 4, a short walk from the Salzburg Cathedral. The funicular runs every 10 minutes and takes less than a minute to reach the top. A round trip ticket alone costs €6.00 for adults and €2.30 for children (6-14.99 years). However, it is included in the Fortress entry tickets.

  • Public Transport

    From Salzburg Central Station (Salzburg Hbf), take bus line 160 to the Rathaus stop. From there, it's a short walk to the Festungsgasse and the funicular valley station. Alternatively, from Salzburg Hbf, take bus line 12 to Justizgebäude B. From there, it is a 15-20 minute walk to the funicular or the base of the fortress. A single bus fare is between €1-€3.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Salzburg. A taxi ride from Salzburg Central Station (Salzburg Hbf) to Fortress Hohensalzburg costs approximately €9-€11 and takes about 5 minutes. From the city center, a taxi to the fortress will cost around €6. Note that taxis cannot drive directly to the fortress entrance, but will drop you off near the funicular valley station or the base of the walking path.

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Discover more about Fortress Hohensalzburg

Perched atop the Festungsberg, Fortress Hohensalzburg is a symbol of Salzburg, offering a journey through centuries of history and architectural grandeur. Constructed in 1077 by Archbishop Gebhard I of Helfenstein, the fortress was initially a simple structure with a wooden wall. Over the centuries, it was expanded and reinforced by successive prince-archbishops, transforming it into the imposing stronghold seen today. Archbishop Leonhard von Keutschach significantly expanded the fortress around 1500, giving it its current appearance. Throughout its history, Fortress Hohensalzburg has never been conquered, a testament to its strategic design and military significance. It served as a protection for the principality and the archbishops from enemy attacks. The fortress also functioned as a storage facility and even a prison. Today, visitors can explore the fortress's well-preserved ramparts, towers, and chambers, experiencing its formidable defenses. Highlights include the Fortress Museum, which showcases historical exhibits, the Marionette Museum, and the Museum of the Rainer Regiment. The Princes' Chambers, dating back to 1501/1502, feature original furnishings and a simulation of the night sky. Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of Salzburg and the surrounding Alps from various viewpoints, including the Reckturm. The fortress hosts concerts, exhibitions, and medieval reenactments throughout the year.

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