The Symbol of Salzburg - Hohensalzburg Castle

While walking through the Mirabell Gardens, we saw the Hohensalzburg Castle towering over the mountains, almost calling us. Of course, we couldn't just admire this beautiful castle from a distance. The next day, we headed to the funicular. The castle, surrounded by steep rocks, sits on top of Festenberg Mountain, 120 meters high. From here you get a spectacular view of Salzburg.

The name of the castle comes from Salzburg Archbishop Gebhard I, who ordered its construction. The castle was built to protect the city and its people and to ensure sustainable economic growth. The archbishop was a smart man, because he picked the perfect spot for the castle. In this location, attacks were almost impossible. The castle had cannons and dungeons looking out through narrow openings. But nobody ever tried to capture it. Throughout its history, Hohensalzburg has never surrendered. The castle was constructed over a long period of time. Inside there are model and portrait collections, showing which ruler completed which part of the construction. Initially the castle was built in the Romanesque style, but over time, it was surrounded by tall towers, sturdy walls and new structures.

Hohensalzburg has an interesting siege story in its history. Miners and peasants, upset over low wages and food shortages, revolted and besieged the castle. Food was running low inside and hunger was setting in. However, the archbishop used a trick to fool the rebels. They paraded a bull painted in different colors around the castle every day to make it seem like there were plenty of animals inside. The rebels fell for the ruse and abandoned the siege. I guess you could call this a lucky castle. It has stood throughout history without facing war or attack, even surviving the bombings of World War II. In the early 20th century, the castle was used as a prison for war captives and nobody ever escaped.

To reach the castle, you can either take the funicular from the old city or walk up. We took the funicular. Tickets are sold for individuals and families. If you're visiting with family, definitely get a family ticket. It's more cost-effective. The funicular ride is included in the ticket price. The funicular has been serving castle visitors since ancient times. It's the easiest way to reach the castle and offers amazing views along the way. This funicular is one of the oldest in Europe and provides a great opportunity for both castle access and panoramic views.

However, the operating hours change between summer and winter, so it's important to check. Also the return trip down the mountain is included in the ticket price.As we rode the funicular, the cityscape unfolded before us and we felt like we were in a magical setting.

Inside the castle, there are many places open to visitors, including the Kraut Tower, the Prince's Chambers, the medieval toilet, the castle museum and the weapon collection. And some people visit the castle just to enjoy the view of Salzburg.

There are two types of entry tickets: basic and standard. The basic ticket doesn't include the Regency Rooms or the Magical Theater. The price for an adult with the funicular included is 12 euros.

While in the castle, we toured the museum, climbed the tower and explored the grounds. To reach the top of the tower, you have to walk up a narrow and steep staircase, but the view is absolutely worth it. We felt like we were in the shoes of a medieval princess or knight.

We also strolled through the castle courtyard, rested on a bench, or looked down from the castle's high walls. The view from the wall provides a fantastic panorama of the city below.

Inside the castle, besides the museum, we also visited the torture chamber. The Kraut Tower has a special organ called the Salzburg Bull, named for its deep and powerful sound. There's also a puppet museum here. In the castle museum, we saw various objects reflecting the history of the city and the castle, Austria's military past and a collection of weapons from different periods.

The Nonnenberg Convent is the oldest active women's convent in German-speaking areas. Tourists can only visit the convent church.

We got an audio guide at the museum. There was also a short video in the castle that showed how it had changed and been built since its inception. It was very informative and interesting.

Our visit to Hohensalzburg was fantastic. It was full of fun and magical.