Hohensalzburg Fortress
Visit the popular fortress in Salzburg
Fortress Hohensalzburg
Fortress Hohensalzburg in spring
The Hohensalzburg Fortress is Central Europe’s largest medieval castle, which has been completely preserved. The almost 1,000-year-old fortress on the Mönchsberg Mountain in Salzburg is a unique historical landmark.
Archbishop Gebhard, former head of the church in Salzburg, built the Hohensalzburg Fortress in 1077. In the 16th century the fortress was further expanded. With its medieval architecture the fortress is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.
Role of the Hohensalzburg Fortress throughout the years
To begin with the Hohensalzburg Fortress was used as a shelter for the regents of the archbishop of Salzburg, later serving as a defence during the war. It was never taken by the enemy and only one cannonball ever hit the fortress.
The Hohensalzburg Fortress has also been used as a barracks and a prison in the past – even archbishop Wolf Dietrich, the great constructor, had to be confined here once. Today the fortress can be visited all year round. At the fortress’ restaurant you can enjoy traditional culinary delights. You may also want to make a reservation for one of the knightly feastings.
Hohensalzburg Fortress: art with medieval flair
The medieval royal room and the fortress’ museum are especially remarkable and worth seeing. You can also see gothic carvings and ornamental paintings in the golden room.
Easy ascent to the Hohensalzburg Fortress
Since 1892 people have been able to get to the fortress by cable car. The “Festungsbahn” has been modernised over the last few years. You’ll find the entrance in the Festungsgasse. If you’d prefer a leisurely stroll, it will take you about thirty minutes on the footpath from the Festungsgasse to the fortress.
Plan a visit to the Fortress in Salzburg during your stay in Austria. Spend your holiday at the Gmachl Hotel, located extremely close to Salzburg. For an unforgettable holiday send us your no-obligation enquiry today!
