Salzburg: Mirabell Palace and Gardens
Salzburg sits on the banks of the River Salzach, at the northern boundary of the Alps. It was salt (“Salz” in German) – shipped along the Salzach until late into the 19th century – which gave the river its name. Walking along the river from old town, we crossed the bridge and made our way to Mirabell Palace and Gardens, where Fräulein Maria and the von Trapp children sang "Do-Re-Mi.” The gardens were absolutely lovely, even in the rain. Looking down the gardens and up the hill is a lovely view of Hohensalzburg Castle.
I was blessed to share this experience with my good friend Matthew Mitchell, visiting from Santa Fe, who is a classical music buff. If not for him, I do not think I would have made the decision to see a classical music performance of Mozart and others inside the palace, and it certainly was a highlight. To be in the hall where both Mozart and his sister played, it felt quite timeless and well…classic.