Domplatz Salzburg: Imposing backdrop in the heart of the old town
The Domplatz in Salzburg impresses with its impressive baroque architecture and the monumental façade of the Salzburg Cathedral. Surrounded by historical buildings, it is not only a meeting place, but also the setting for numerous events, such as the famous Salzburg Christmas market. The square conveys a unique flair and combines art, culture and history right in the heart of the city.
Short info:
- What is the Cathedral Square? The Cathedral Square is a central square in Salzburg, surrounded by historic buildings and the impressive Salzburg Cathedral is characterized by.
- Where is he? The Cathedral Square is located in the old town, not far from the Salzburg Cathedral.
- Why is it important? The Cathedral Square is of historical and cultural importance as it is the setting for many events and festivals in Salzburg. The most famous performance is the famous drama “Jedermann”
- How much does the entrance fee cost? Entry to the Cathedral Square itself is free, but costs for events vary.
- When is it open? The Cathedral Square is generally accessible at all times, although events and shops may be restricted to certain opening hours.
- How much time should I plan for? 15 minutes
Generally
The Cathedral Square in Salzburg is an enchanting place steeped in rich history and cultural significance. Its construction was commissioned by Archbishop Wolf Dietrich. This unique square is located in the heart of Salzburg's old town and is surrounded by majestic buildings, including the magnificent Salzburg Cathedral, the archbishop's residence and a convent wing of the Stifts St. PeterThanks to the “Cathedral Arches” built by Giovanni Antonio Darios, the Cathedral Square is connected to the Residenzplatz, the Kapitelplatz and other arcades leading to the Franziskanergasse.
Cathedral Square today
Due to its closed form, the cathedral square has become a popular venue for the famous drama "Anyone" by Hugo von Hofmannsthal during the Salzburg Festival During the summer months, the square becomes a stage and offers spectators' stands that allow for a comfortable break in the midst of the historic flair of the old town. In winter, the Salzburg Christmas market and in autumn various events such as the Ruperkirtag take place.
Marian column
In the middle of the cathedral square stands a column depicting Mary Immaculate. It is surrounded by allegorical figures, including angels, devils, truth and the church. This statue was built in imitation of similar Marian columns in Vienna and Munich. Archbishop Sigismund Count Schrattenbach commissioned the creation of this statue of the Immaculate Mary, which was created between 1766 and 1771 by the brothers Wolfgang and Johann Baptist Hagenauer, a unique combination of marble sculpture and lead casting.
If you approach the Marian Column from the arcades of Franziskanergasse, you can observe a fascinating optical phenomenon: if you look at the head of Mary, you get the impression that the Virgin is crowned by two angels who hold a crown and seem to float on the cathedral façade.
Unfortunately, you also have to be a bit lucky to see it. During our last visits, it was covered up once and surrounded by a stage the other time.
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