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fortress Hohensalzburg

Fortress Hohensalzburg: Salzburg’s Historic Castle

Fortress Hohensalzburg is a medieval fortress in Salzburg, Austria.

You can explore the fortress and its many rooms and exhibits, including the Fortress Museum, the Prince’s Chambers, and the Gothic Hall. There are a few restaurants and cafes and a concert hall.

Fortress Hohensalzburg is known for its stunning architecture, which includes a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles. It is one of the largest and best-preserved fortresses in Europe, and is a must-see for anyone visiting Salzburg!

Fortress Hohensalzburg

Fortress Hohensalzburg Fortress Hohensalzburg

Fortress Hohensalzburg

The History of Fortress Hohensalzburg

It was built in 1077 by Archbishop Gebhard, but was later expanded and renovated over the centuries. The fortress defended Salzburg during the medieval period, and was used as a residence by the archbishops. It offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

In the 19th century, the fortress was used as a military barracks and prison. It was later restored and opened to the public in the early 20th century as a museum and cultural center.



Fortress Hohensalzburg

Fortress Hohensalzburg Fortress Hohensalzburg Zack Fortress Hohensalzburg Katie

Fortress Hohensalzburg tunnel

Ride the Funicular: Festungsbahn

The Festungsbahn is a funicular railway providing access to Hohensalzburg Fortress. The funicular is a cable car that provides you with a convenient and scenic way to reach the fortress. The funicular was built in 1892, and was the first of its kind in Austria.

The cable car departs from the Festungsgasse station, which is located in the heart of Salzburg’s historic district. It then travels up the steep slope of the Mönchsberg mountain, passing over the rooftops of the city and offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

The ride takes around 90 seconds, and you can ride to the top fortress and back down to the city center. The funicular at the Salzwelten Salt Mine is around three minutes long.

Learn more about the Festungsbahn.



View of Salzburg Fortress Hohensalzburg

View of Salzburg Fortress Hohensalzburg View of Salzburg Fortress Hohensalzburg

Fortress Hohensalzburg

Fortress Hohensalzburg well Fortress Hohensalzburg

Views of Salzburg

From the fortress’s ramparts and towers, you can get panoramic views of the historic city center, the Salzach River, and the surrounding Salzburg Alps. Salzburg is stunning – this did not disappoint! You can see many historic buildings and landmarks of the city, including the Residenz Palace and Schloss Mirabell.

We didn’t get to see the views at night, but I’ve seen images and it looks amazing as well.



Fortress Hohensalzburg cannon

Fortress Hohensalzburg Fortress Hohensalzburg

Fortress Hohensalzburg Museums

  • Princely Chambers: The Princely Chambers are a collection of opulent rooms that were used by the archbishops of Salzburg as their living quarters. Visitors can see the luxurious furnishings and decor, as well as historic artwork and other artifacts.
  • Marionette Museum: The Marionette Museum houses a collection of puppets and marionettes used in the famous Salzburg Marionette Theatre, which has been performing in the city since the early 20th century. Visitors can see puppets from productions of famous operas and plays, and learn about the history of the art of puppetry.
  • Fortress Museum: This museum explores the history of the fortress, including its construction, expansion, and role in the defense of Salzburg over the centuries. Visitors can see historic weapons, armor, and other artifacts, and learn about the daily life of the fortress’s inhabitants.
  • Rainer Regiment Museum: This museum is dedicated to the Rainer Regiment, which was stationed at the fortress in the 19th century. Visitors can learn about the regiment’s history and see a collection of historic uniforms, weapons, and equipment.
  • Fortress Concerts: In addition to the museums, Fortress Hohensalzburg also hosts regular concerts and performances in its historic halls. Enjoy classical music, folk music, and other cultural events in the unique and stunning setting of the fortress.


Schloss Mirabel

I also captured this gorgeous view above of the fortress from the gardens at Schloss Mirabel. We walked from our hotel near the train station and passed through the gardens on our way to the historic city center. The snow is a beautiful addition to our trip! It was cold, but it made for a great experience.

Fortress Hohensalzburg Details:

  • Hours: October – April: 9.30 a.m. – 5.00 p.m. / May – September: 8.30 a.m. – 8.00 p.m.
  • Address: Mönchsberg 34, 5020 Salzburg
  • Fortress Hohensalzburg Website

XOXO,
Katie

If you are planning a trip to Salzburg, you may also want to check these other articles:

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Katie Kinsley

Katie Kinsley

Hailing from the great state of Wisconsin, Katie Kinsley is a content creating, email marketing, overambitious plant-lover (read: killer). She's obsessed with planning detailed vacations and finding and building an affordable wardrobe. She's an individualist at heart discovering self-growth, a parent to a dog and a cat and in love with productivity hacks.
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Hello I’m Katie!

Katie Kinsley is a Texas-based digital marketer and aspiring influencer. This is a lifestyle blog focused on Katie’s work-in-progress life. She’s focused on creating joy in the everyday, sharing adventures throughout Dallas/Ft. Worth (and the world), and empowering women to find their confidence — all in her unique unfiltered style.
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