Salzburg: Hohensalzburg Fortress
Hohensalzburg Fortress/Medieval Castle: Hohensalzburg translates into “High Salzburg Fortress”, the castle sits atop Festungberg Hill and can be seen from most points in the city. When the fortress was first built in 1077 by Archbishop Gebhard, it was nothing more than simple buildings and a wooden wall. It was expanded over time and to this day, inside its protective walls, it still looks and feels like an authentic medieval village. The views are exceptional, even with the rain and fog.
On an odd note, in the Prince’s Cellars at the castle, you will find a collection of historic marionettes from the iconic Salzburg Marionette Theatre. The museum is unexpected and, since I find puppets somewhat creepy, a weird experience of stringed figures trapped within the fortress’s dark, tunnel-like basement. I almost passed on it, but seriously…too odd to not check out.
