Our Planet’s Landmarks Series #25
Hohensalzburg Fortress Salzburg Austria
‘How do you solve a problem like Maria?’ marked Julie Andrews’ first appearance on screen in The Sound of Music. She ran about the verdant hills around Salzburg. She mouthed the innocent lyrics as she cuddled a lamb. And I fell in love with her.
After many a soulful song and much drama, the movie ended. With von Trapp family managing a narrow escape from Nazis. And by then, I had fallen in love with Salzburg. That it was also the birthplace of Mozart struck me later.
Ever since, I had a strong desire to visit Salzburg.
Salzburg, Finally!
I extended my Czech Republic trip in July 2018. And chose to visit Vienna and Budapest. From Vienna, a day trip to Salzburg was never in question.
As I boarded an OBB train from Vienna, a few scenes from The Sound of Music replayed in my mind. The baroque city centre, the invincible-looking Hohensalzburg Fortress, and the meandering River Salzach. And of course, the cemetery crypt where von Trapps hid before their escape.
The train eased into Salzburg station. A building painted in strong primaries dazzled me. In the distance, I could see the imposing teal domes of Salzburg Cathedral. Perched atop a hill, Hohensalzburg Fortress reminded me of hill forts of Rajasthan. I was in Salzburg. Finally!
Out and About in Salzburg
I stepped out of the station. My focus for the day was to visit the historical city centre of Salzburg – a UNESCO site. And the Hohensalzburg Fortress (High Salzburg Fortress). I bought myself a HOHO bus ticket to head over to the city centre.
Once there, reaching the funicular was but a short, steep climb. And the funicular ride, another couple of minutes.
Hohensalzburg Fortress
They built this 250×150-mt castle in 1077 CE. It got its current shape and form in the
As you get out of the funicular an walk down a narrow alley, you find yourself in the inner courtyard. St. George’s Chapel dominates the courtyard. And here, you find many other smaller Christian places of worship.
The Hohensalzburg Fortress is now a museum. The chambers within display objects from the medieval era to the mid-nineteenth century. Including the Coat of Arms, the regalia, the artefacts, and more. A small theatre here runs regular shows about its history. It uses plywood sets, synchronised with music.
Of all the attractions within, the Golden Chamber and the Bedchamber stand out. Their period furniture, rich tapestry, ornamental walls, and ceilings are an opulent sight.
View from Hohensalzburg Fortress
The fortress is on Festungsberg, a 540-metre high hill. Little wonder the view around is breathtaking. From here, you can see the medieval domes, the river and the colourful city of Salzburg.
Cemetery at the Church of St. Peters Abbey. The escape of von Trapp familywas filmed here in The Sound of Music. 
Another view of the cemetery at the Church of St. Peters Abbey. The escape of von Trapp familywas filmed here in The Sound of Music.
As you climb down Festungsberg, you find yourself in the precincts of the Church of St. Peter’s Abbey. A wrought iron fence encloses it. Within the abbey lies a cemetery and a crypt. They had filmed the von Trapp family’s escape scene here.
A little distance from the abbey, you can spot Mozart’s birthplace. Thousands visit this landmark every week. A restaurant here pays homage to the musical genius by using his notation sheets as decoration.
Though a hilltop fortress, its presence, and dominance, shapes Salzburg the city. UNESCO may acknowledge Salzburg city centre as world heritage. But, it is the fortress that gives Salzburg its character. To me, that makes it a perfect candidate to be our planet’s landmark!
