Salzburg
The name of Salzburg literally means "Salt Castle". The city is set on the river Salzach, which served as a transport corridor for boats of salt in the 8th century. Salzburg was a customs point and a toll was paid by tradesmen. First a Celtic town, then a Roman city, Salzburg is considered the oldest settlement in the Alps. It was fought for by the Germans and the Austrians - in fact few people know that at an unofficial referendum in 1921 99% of the citizens of Salzburg supported annexation to Germany.The city today is the 4th largest in Austria. It is a major tourist center despite of the lack of skiing facilities - one of the main attraction profiles of Austria. Salzburg is, however, the main gate to the southern skiing terrains of Austria and its airport welcomes the main tourist flows in winter.
History, architecture and music - those are the 3 charm-weapons of the city on the "salt river". The center of Salzburg – the Old Town, is famous for its amazingly preserved baroque architecture. In 1997 it was announced world heritage site of UNESCO. Castles and imposing churches are among the masterpieces of architecture and symbolize the rich history of the town today. You can admire the Salzburg cathedral, enjoy a panorama of the town from the majestic castle of Hohensalzburg and visit the fragrant gardens full of flowers of the Palace of Mirabell.
Salzburg is also city famous for its rich cultural and artistic background. It is a students' city with 3 prestigious universities. But the biggest fame it reached is as the birthplace of the greatest Mozart. His birth house and residence are today transformed into museums. Among other famous citizens of Salzburg are Stefan Zweig, Herbert von Karajan, etc.
Hotels in Salzburg