Mirabell Palace & Garden

Mirabell Palace & Garden is located on the north bank of the Salzach River in Salzburg. Built in 1606 by Archbishop Dietrich for his lover Salome and their children, the palace was later renamed "Mirabell" by his successor. Today, it serves as the office of Salzburg's municipal authorities. The iconic scene from the movie The Sound of Music, where Maria and the children sing "Do-Re-Mi," was filmed by the garden's steps and fountain.

The palace suffered a fire in 1818, with the marble staircase leading to the garden and the marble hall being among the surviving parts. The staircase is adorned with cherubs sculpted by Baroque artist Donner, each holding clouds in playful and endearing poses. The marble hall once echoed with the piano melodies of the young Mozart and is now a popular wedding venue, also frequently used for concerts and other events.

The garden features a typical Baroque layout: statues of Greek and Roman mythological figures flank the entrance, while the central Pegasus fountain is surrounded by sculptures symbolizing the four elements. The green hedge theater at the rear, enclosed by neatly trimmed hedges, dates back to the early 18th century. The dwarf garden boasts a group of whimsically exaggerated stone gnomes, said to be modeled after real court figures. Unicorn sculptures scattered throughout add a fairy-tale charm to the solemn Baroque scenery. Climb the steps to the rose hill for a view of Salzburg Fortress on the opposite riverbank. The garden is adorned mainly with flower beds, hedges, and roses, making it especially delightful to visit during warmer seasons.