This opulent palace dates from the 13th century and has been transformed from an archbishop’s residence to a busy cultural hotspot.
Salzburg Residenz is home to a fantastic art gallery as well as one of Salzburg's favourite classical music venues. It was the residence of the city's archbishops and prince archbishops for many centuries – making it a hugely important centre of power for wealthy and influential men.Stroll through the decadent hall and chambers occupied by countless important royal and religious figures down through the centuries. Follow the 45-minute self-guided audio tour around the 180 rooms of the huge building this is available in eight different languages.The Residenz was commissioned in 1232 by Archbishop Konrad I to be his residence. It was updated and the present palace built under Prince Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau during the course of the 1500s.The palace's importance as a musical venue is also given the weight it deserves on the tour. Mozart gave his the first in a lifetime of concerts at the prodigious age of just six in the Ratzimmer (Councillor's Room) in 1762. He would also go on to perform in the Rittersaal (Knight's Hall), as have many other musicians throughout the years. This fine tradition continues to this day, with the Salzburg Palace Concerts series of recitals and concerts being held here – have a look online to see who's playing while you're in town.Climb to the second floor to enjoy the delights of the Carbinierisaal, a former feasting hall and venue for theatre performances. Soak up the decorative splendour of the many different rooms, pausing especially in the Audienzsaal (Audience Hall) to appreciate the frescoes depicting Alexander the Great on its soaring ceilings.The Residenz Gallery displays a range of top-class paintings from different European masters. The most celebrated of these is Rembrandt's Mother Praying, and there is plenty of classical art from the 16th to the 19th centuries to be enjoyed also. You can visit the gallery on its own, or make it part of the Stately Rooms and Gallery audio tour ticket.Found in the heart of the Old Town, the Salzburg Residenz is directly across the Residenzplatz from Salzburg Cathedral. Regular buses come here from the train station. Many of the best attractions in Salzburg are just a short stroll away, including Mozart Square and Getreidegasse.Salzburg Residenz is open all year round, with the gallery open from Tuesday to Sunday.
