Salzburg, The Sound and Sight of Beauty
Movies has always been an spectacle for the eyes. Beautifully photographed scenes set on a wonderfully chosen location. There are these movies that permanently etches the scenic views into our minds.
Then there is the Sound of Music. A timeless movie about a time where appreciation of the arts and beauty is an escape from the grim nature of man. Just like today. So if you need an escape, why not go back to what Mary and the Von Trapps experienced in the movie.
Ladies, and gentlemen, I present you - Salzburg.
The real life city and setting of the Sound of Music - Salzburg City, is the capital of the federal state of Salzburg Bundesland in north-central Austria. Perfectly perched in between the northern part of the Alps and the German border along with the enchanting Salzach River this UNESCO World Heritage site is a must visit for every history, culture and travel loving soul.
While the movie really did a great job of showcasing the awe inspiring views of the city, it is still a sight to behold when you see Salzburg in person. Imagine pristine blue lakes with culturally rich Austrian villages as the background. The city is a perfect marriage of natural beauty and the culture loving hearts of the Austrians.
If you are to visit this place, there is two things you need to bring. A history listening ear and a heart full of amazement. Aside from the the Sound of Music locations - there is more to Salzburg than the movie. So get your bags ready and let’s venture into Salzburg.
Back in the medieval times, Salzburg already has quite a reputation of being one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Boasting a outstanding combination of the majestic Alpine mountains and a robust architecture. Showcasing the best of Italian Renaissance and Baroque style architecture the city was known for its nickname - “German Rome”. Unfortunately by the time 1818 came, most of the middle age buildings and churches were damage and or destroyed by fire.
To enjoy Sazlburg city, one has to know that the city is divided into two. The older town, and the newer town. Each of the towns sitting on each bank of the Salzach river.
Positioned at the left bank of the Salzach is the Older Town. This is where you’ll see the Residenzplatz with the archbishop’s residence. There is also an amazing gallery of 16th–19th century European paintings, and a giant Baroque fountain. Just opposite of it is the Residenz Neugebäude; its tower contains was Antwerp, Belgium made clockwork and carillon. There are 35 bells that ranges from the big (16 kg) to the gargantuan (380 kg). These bells plays Salzburg’s own Michael Haydn and by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Salzburg’s most famous son, original composition. Also the cathedral, or Dom, was the first church built in the Italian style on German soil.
The newer town, on the right bank of the Salzach, showcases landmarks like the St. Sebastian’s Church. The church is the site for the graves of Mozart’s wife and father. Also there is the Holy Trinity Church, designed by the renowned architect Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach; and the Mozarteum, comprising a music academy, concert halls, and Mozart archives. The Mirabell Castle also features prominently in the town and was designed by Scamozzi for the prince-archbishop Raitenau’s mistress. It was remodeled by the Austrian architect Johann Lucas von Hildebrandt, and reconstructed by Peter von Nobile after the 1818 fire.
Salzburg is also the birthplace of Mozart. His house, No. 9 Getreidegasse, is preserved and turned into a museum. It is also the site of the internationally renowned annual Salzburg Festival. In 1917 Hugo von Hofmannsthal, Richard Strauss, and Max Reinhardt founded the Festival Theatre Committee, which mounted a festival at Salzburg on an annual basis. The Salzburg Festival now comprises recitals, concerts of orchestral and chamber music, church music, opera, and drama. The festival’s main music of choice is of course by Mozart.
There are more to Salzburg than what a normal tourist would see. But there are ways to explore the amazing city and what better way than to have yourself some able hands to help you do it. BCN Montjuic Tourist Point is a one stop shop for all your travel needs. Call us or email us and we will make your Salzburg tour a more personal experience.