Hohensalzburg Fortress

Hohensalzburg Fortress

Attraction Introduction

Hohensalzburg Fortress is the landmark of Salzburg. It is the largest ancient fortress in Central Europe. Having withstood over 900 years of history, it still stands proudly atop a hill more than 100 meters high in the old town.

Construction of the fortress began in 1077 and was completed in 1861. It features internal streets and is surrounded by tall, thick walls. It once served as the residence of the Prince-Archbishops of Salzburg throughout various eras. The entire fortress complex is vast, with courtyards and multiple buildings, such as halls used by the archbishop for grand religious ceremonies, a concert hall, living quarters for the archbishop, an armory, a prisoners’ tower, and an exhibition of medieval torture instruments, among others. There is also a Brocken Museum inside the fortress, showcasing exquisite medieval artworks that leave visitors in awe.

Transportation to the fortress has been modernized, with all access via cable car. It takes about ten minutes to reach the fortress by cable car, and visitors can descend on foot via mountain trails after their tour.

Salzburg, Austria