Whether you’re visiting Salzburg on a guided day trip, as part of a walking tour, or planning an extended stay, the cathedral is a must-visit. The story of the structure reveals a history of destruction and restoration. There’s been a sacred building on the site since the 8th century, yet the current building was constructed in the 17th century, damaged in bombing raids during World War II, and was extensively repaired in the 1950s.
Several interesting items in the cathedral speak to its long history: the bronze baptismal font dates from the 1300s, and was used to baptize Mozart himself; and the two relics contain the remains of Austrian saints Rupert, the patron saint of Salzburg, and Virgil, a holy Irishman and astronomer who came to Austria in the 8th century. Head down to the crypt to see the foundations of earlier versions of the church.
Salzburg Cathedral is located in Domplatz square in the Old Town. It’s easy walking distance from other major sites in the area, such as Mozartplatz and Getreidegasse. Local buses 160 and 170 run from the main train station to the town hall (Rathaus) a short walk away.
The cathedral is open daily, year-round. There’s no admittance during holy mass (unless you plan to attend the service). During the summer Salzburg Festival and at Christmastime, tours of the cathedral are available for a fee.
Held in a festival hall built into the rock and immortalized in The Sound of Music, the Salzburg Festival has been an annual feature of life in the city since 1920, and is known for performances by top classical orchestras, choirs, and soloists. If you’re planning to visit between July and August, you’re sure to come across the festival in full swing.
