Fortress Hohensalzburg
Built at the top of a massive rock which dominates the local landscape of Salzburg, Austria, Fortress Hohensalzburg soars some 400 feet above the river Salzach. Built by the Archbishop Gebhart von Salzburg in 1077, it dates to an era of religious and political controversy, when the emperor, Heinrich IV, and Pope Gregor VII both sought the right to appoint the bishop. Gebhart was eternally loyal to the pope and faithfully decided to build upon his land. The fortress was both to promote the political power of the bishops and to protect them from any outside attack. The site was naturally advantageous, offering a clear view of the Northern edge of the Alps. Archbishop Gebhart von Salzburg was exiled in 1085, before the fortress was completed. As it was upgraded, it was fortified with all of the latest military defensive technology.
During the Hungarian and Peasants’ War, it was used as a central symbol of political power; archbishops would take refuge here. Once it became used as a temporary residence, it was expanded and decorated by the Archbishop Leonhard von Keutschach in the 16th century. Under Keutschach, the Upper Level of the fortress was converted into a palace and the towers were raised. The Golden Hall and Chamber are filled with elaborate Gothic wood-carvings and exquisite paintings. The fortress also houses a prison and military barracks.
What is perhaps most interesting about the fortress is that in all of its years, it has never been conquered by opposing forces. In fact, it was so visually intimidating, no one ever attacked it. When Napoleon entered Salzburg in the early 19th century, the fortress was offered willingly. Today, it is one of the largest and most complete fortresses in central Europe. The site is open to tourists, offers evening concerts, and houses the International Summer Academy for artists across the globe.
At the top of the baroque towers, visitors to the fortress have the opportunity to peer down over all of Salzburg. The 360 degree views of the city include breath-taking images of the nearby Alps and river. If that wasn’t enough to lure in tourists, the fortress houses a beautiful castle courtyard, a Romanesque chapel, torture chamber, and museums. Within the museums, visitors can explore royal apartments, State rooms, weapons and armory, military uniforms, and the Marionette Theater. A combined ticket can be purchased anywhere in the city below for a mere € 11.00 and even includes a cable railway transport to bypass the lengthy journey the top and back down again. (Lacy Pline, Flagler College)
References:
Festung Hohensalzburg,
http://www.salzburg-burgen.at/en/hohensalzburg/hohensalzburg/index.htm
Tourismus Salzburg
http://www.salzburg.info/en/sights/fortress_palaces/hohensalzburg_fortress
Smithsonian Online
http://www.smithsonianmag.com/specialsections/ricksteves/Salzburgs-Hohensalzburg-Fortress.html
Credits and Sources:
Lacy A. Pline, Flagler College
