A visit to Hohensalzburg Fortress: everything you need to know

Hohensalzburg Fortress – The complete Guide

Hohensalzburg Fortress is impossible to miss when visiting Salzburg, as it sits atop a hill, dominating the city’s skyline. But beyond being an imposing sight, a visit to Hohensalzburg Fortress is a must for both young and old. This 900-year-old structure is one of the best-preserved fortresses in Europe. Visitors can experience history firsthand, attracting over a million people each year. In this article, I’ll summarize what you can expect during your visit, how to get there, and what else you should know.

The History of Hohensalzburg Fortress

The foundation stone for the fortress was laid in 1077 by Archbishop Gebhard I of Helfenstein. Initially, a simple building protected by a wooden wall was constructed to defend the principality from attacks and to demonstrate the power of the Catholic Church.

Between 1495 and 1519, the fortress was transformed into the structure that still stands today. Archbishop Leonhard von Keutschach, the last feudal ruler of Salzburg, built one of the largest fortresses in Europe to protect himself from both internal and external revolts.

His plan worked, as the fortress was never conquered or even attacked. Over time, it was used as a storage facility and even a prison. Since the late 19th century, it has become a popular tourist destination. In 1892, the fortress funicular was opened, allowing visitors to easily ascend the hill. The funicular itself is a historical artifact, making it one of the oldest railways in the world.

What to Expect During Your Visit to Hohensalzburg Fortress

Hohensalzburg Fortress offers various museums, viewpoints, and guided tours. Here’s a quick overview of what you can experience during your visit:

Viewpoints at Hohensalzburg Fortress

Because the fortress is located on a hill overlooking the city, there are several spots with breathtaking views. Four specific locations are designated as viewpoints. Three of these are bastions. For a unique view of the Alps, head to the southern bastion. The other two bastions offer stunning views of the Old Town. It’s worth visiting all three for a well-rounded experience.

If you want an even higher perspective, climb the observation tower for a panoramic view of the entire landscape, including the Alps and Salzburg.

Activities at the Hohensalzburg Fortress

The fortress offers several activities and museums. Here’s a brief overview of what’s currently available:

Fortress Museum:

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Salzburg and the fortress, visit the Fortress Museum. The museum displays medieval artifacts from the Salzburg Museum’s collection, with 12 rooms showcasing different aspects of life in the Middle Ages.

Rainer Regiment Museum:

An independent museum that’s been housed in the fortress since 1924, the Rainer Regiment Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of Archduke Rainer. Various items from his life, including weapons, photos, and uniforms, are on display. This museum is particularly interesting for those with an interest in military history.

Marionette Museum:

Here, you can admire marionettes from the renowned Salzburg Marionette Theatre and learn about its history. Visitors can also try their hand at operating a marionette. For a deeper insight into this art form, be sure to visit the Marionette Theatre on Schwarzstraße.

Armory:

This large fortress offers ample space, including the former storage rooms for fortress artillery. Today, the Armory is a museum where you can learn more about medieval weapons and fortress construction. The interactive exhibit is especially fun for children, but adults can also enjoy the hands-on experiences.

Panorama Tour:

In each room of the Panorama Tour, a central element takes the spotlight. Be dazzled by shimmering salt, golden musical instruments, and wrought iron. A highlight of the tour is the Salzburg Bull, one of the last horn instruments from the late Gothic period and the oldest mechanical instrument still in use.

Prince’s Rooms and Magic Theatre:

These three opulent rooms were built around 1500 directly above the Archbishop’s private quarters. They weren’t intended for living but rather to impress guests and subjects with their grandeur, demonstrating the Archbishop’s power. The rooms are well-preserved and offer a stunning example of late Gothic architecture. The Magic Theatre features a multimedia exhibition.

There are also several guided tours available. A free 30-minute tour is offered, but there are also many specialized tours, including those tailored for children, focused on specific themes, or with fewer stairs. The tour options change regularly, so it’s best to check the website for the latest schedule.

Concerts at Hohensalzburg Fortress

The fortress’s grand rooms also host regular concerts. Here, you can enjoy live performances by the Salzburg Mozart Ensemble or the Mozart Chamber Orchestra of Salzburg. In addition to works by Mozart, pieces by Strauss, Haydn, and other popular composers are performed. If you wish, you can also book a three-course dinner before the concert, served with breathtaking views in the Panorama Restaurant. Tickets must be booked in advance.

Admission Tickets

There are several ticket options for Hohensalzburg Fortress. The cheapest tickets can be purchased online in advance, but you can also buy tickets on-site. There are four main ticket options:

An Exciting Visit for All Ages

Whether you’re visiting with friends, family, or on your own, Hohensalzburg Fortress has something for everyone, with plenty to discover. You should plan to spend at least half a day, or even a full day, to fully immerse yourself in the history. If you’re visiting for the views, try to choose a sunny day. And if you want to see every little detail, don’t forget your binoculars.

If you’re short on time, consider booking one of our Salzburg tours, which includes a visit to Hohensalzburg Fortress. One of our licensed guides will show you everything Salzburg has to offer in about three hours.