EDITION
2018
CULTURAL PLEASURES TRADITION & MODERNITY HAUTE CUISINE
STEEPED IN HISTORY Salzburg - City of Churches
DESTINATIONS Expeditions for Families
ANNIVERSARY 200 Years of „Silent Night!” Photo: iStock/ LaraIrimeeva
Everyman Tobias Moretti and paramour Stefanie Reinsperger (left), the Russian mezzo-soprano Ekaterina Semenchuck as Amneris in Aida (top), and Mariinsky Theatre solo dancer Olesia Novikova (bottom) pictured in their performances from last year.
LET THE GAMES BEGIN ! EASTER, WHITSUN, SUMMER - Salzburg’s festival season lasts HALF A YEAR. High-calibre artists lend a global appeal to cleverly conceptualised schedules. The Mozart metropolis Salzburg is - as every year - a fixed star in the INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL UNIVERSE. Text Cay Bubendorfer Photos Salzburger Festspiele/Monika Rittershaus, Matthias Horn, Valentin Baranovsky
High-Voltage Easter Festival 24th of March to 2nd of April 2018
Turn of the Times at Whitsun 18th to 21st of May 2018
A Summer of Passion 20th of July to 30th of August 2018
The season is opened by the Easter Festival from the 24th of March to the 2nd of April. At the centre of the festival, founded by Herbert von Karajan 51 years ago, is Giacomo Puccini’s opera “Tosca”. Anja Harteros has been casted in the title role. Ludovic Tezier portrays the villain Sciarpa, while Aleksandrs Antonenko plays the painter Cavaradossi, Tosca’s faithful lover. The conductor’s stand of the “Sächsische Staatskapelle Dresden” is manned by Christian Thielemann, the artistic director of the Easter Festival. Director Philipp Stölzl is eager to open up new scenic perspectives in his production of the “Verismo Thriller” - love, jealousy, faithfulness, and deadly betrayal against the historical backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars. The concert programme is equally illustrious. The soloist in the choir concert is star mezzo-soprano Elina Garanca. Virtuoso Argentinean cellist Sol Gabetta not only performs two chamber concerts, but also takes part in an orchestral concert with the “Dresdners”. The chamber opera series, launched in 2017, continues this year with Bruno Maderna’s one-act play “Satyricon”.
Artistic director Cecilia Bartoli has chosen the year 1868 and its visible “breaks in time” as the pivotal topic of the Salzburg Whitsun Festival from the 18th to the 21st of May. To celebrate the 150th anniversary of Gioachino Rossini’s death, a scenic production of his opera “L’italiana in Algeri” is a central element. Bartoli herself sings the role of Isabella, while Jean-Christophe Spinosi leads the Ensemble Matheus. The second central element is a concert version of the rarely performed opera “La Perichole” by Jaques Offenbach, which premiered in 1868. In two concerts of the “Staatskapelle Berlin” - led by Daniel Barenboim - one can hear works by Rossini, Tchaikovsky, Edvard Grieg, and Richard Wagner. Once again, the cast is truly stellar: Cecilia Bartoli, Rolando Villazon, and Jonas Kaufmann. Brahms in chamber music mode and Bruckner meet in a spiritual matinee, while Whit Monday affords an opportunity to reconnect with the wonderful violinist Maxim Vengerov. In a solo concert, he interprets Max Bruch’s Violin Concerto No. 1 from 1868 - a showpiece of Romanticism.
Passion, ecstasy, and emotion - powerful attributes that elude rational thought and can turn the world upside down - are thrust into the spotlight of the Salzburg Festival by artistic director Markus Hinterhäuser. Five new operas and four theatre productions deal with abysses and obsessions from different perspectives. Naturally, the programme also includes the obligatory “Jedermann” (“Everyman”) production in front of the Salzburg Cathedral. Lydia Steier, a US director with Austrian roots, intends to lend Mozart’s “The Magic Flute” her very own twist by telling it from the perspective of three boys. Italian director Romeo Castelucci promises a version of Richard Strauss’ “Salome” that is free of stereotypes. The magnificent Hans Neuenfels, stages Tchaikovsky’s “The Queen of Spades”. Claudio Monteverdi’s “L’incoronazione di Poppea” is set in scene by the Belgian multi-talent Jan Lauwers. A 20th century perspective is provided by Hans Werner Henze’s opera “The Bassarids”. Ever since the birth of the Salzburg Festival in August 1920, the best singers, soloists, actors, conductors, and orchestras flock to Salzburg. This summer, they offer 206 performances at 18 venues.
A PEEK BEHIND GATES AND DOORS The INDIVIDUAL CHURCH TOUR through Salzburg opens up a whole new world. Church enthusiasts can gain an INSIGHT INTO GOD’S HOUSES at eight impressive locations. Come within reach of CENTURIES-OLD HISTORY.
Text Eva Goldschald, Alexandra Hawel Photo Tourismus Salzburg/Günter Breitegger
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he tour through Salzburg’s churches takes its attendants deeper into the centuries-old history of the Salzach city and surprises with many new facets. The order in which visitors embark on this expedition is actually irrelevant. This path through the “Rome of the North” - as Salzburg is often called - is certainly impressive.
Step by Step Even though the tour offers many possibilities for variation, visitors should probably embark on this historic expedition early in the morning at Nonnberg Abby. At the foot of the Hohensalzburg Fortress, the nuns enchant the world with their interpretation of Gregorian chorales at 6.45am every day. Salzburg’s oldest nunnery, which is run by the Benedictine Order, not only impresses with its atmospheric morning melodies, but also with its Gothic building elements and elaborate murals. Incidentally, the story about the novice Maria von Kutschera, who lived in the abbey in the 1920s, served as the blueprint for the world-famous Hollywood film “Sound of Music”. A few hundred metres further on, the path leads us to the Kajetanerkirche, a Roman-Catholic church erected in 1150. What makes this monument so special is not necessarily the inside of the church, but can be found on its first and second floors: the so-called “Holy Staircase”. It was built in 1712 as an imitation of the Scala Santa
in Rome and can only be viewed on Saturdays between 11am and noon. Although one merely needs to climb 28 steps to reach the crucifixion altar, the ascent is quite difficult. Visitors are required to navigate the stairs on their knees. After a breathtaking view of the gilded sanctuaries of the church, the tour leads us into the heart of Salzburg: the Salzburg Cathedral. The three bronze gates - one each for love, faith, and hope - lead into the interior of the imposing sacral building. It’s worthwhile to research the many exciting details in advance in order to spot them upon arrival. Did you know that the birth of Salzburg dates back to the founding of a monastery? In 696, Saint Rupert, the Bishop of Worms at the time, came to Salzburg as a missionary. He built St. Peter, the oldest monastery in Austria, on the ruins of the Roman city Juvavum. Thus he laid the foundation for Mozart’s hometown, which is why he is considered to be the founder of Salzburg. On the fringe of the cemetery of St. Peter one can find the so-called “Catacombs” - burial places and hermitages for clergymen that were carved into the Mönchsberg. Highlights are the Gertraud Chapel and Maximus Chapel, which were also hewn into the mountain. From the catacombs, the journey continues in the direction of the Franciscan Church. Its so-called “Oath Hand”, which is located in the right lower section of the portal, is the subject of many folk legends. The hand is a symbol of sanctuary: anyone who touches it is granted admission, no matter whether guilty or innocent. Through the “Sigmund-Haffner-Gasse” one reaches the next church:
the baroque Collegiate Church. In contrast to other places of worship, which impress with typical, sumptuous interiors, the “Light Church” - as it is also called - is very purist. Due to its white walls and reduced interior, the church is often used for art and music exhibitions.
The Right Old Town The architectural counterpart can be found on the other side of the Salzach: the Trinity Church. It extends inwards through its design, while the Collegiate Church swings outwards. Every Saturday at 6.30pm, visitors are afforded an opportunity to enjoy the sounds of the organ concerts by “Musica Sacra Trinitatis Salisburgensis”. Another special feature is the church’s request book, in which one can write down wishes, prayers, and worries. The eighth (and last) station is St. Maria Loreto, which is also known as the Loreto Church. This place of worship harbours a very special gem: the Loreto Child. This eleven-centimetre tall Jesus figurine made of ivory is reportedly capable of performing miracles. A special act of blessing, and thus a truly grand finale to the tour, is to have one of the nuns place the little statue on one’s head.
Tip: Sightseeing is not possible during church services. Therefore, it is worthwhile to align the tour with the respective service schedules. Further information and a tour map can be found here: www.salzburg.info/city-of-churches
View of the famous Salzburg Cathedral from the Mönchsberg: the cathedral houses the DomQuartier museum, which was opened in 2014. With more than 2,000 exhibits, it is yet another cultural highlight of Salzburg.
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EXCURSIONS FOR YOUNG AND OLD UNESCO World Heritage, the Salzburg Festival, and “The Sound of Music” - Salzburg is perceived as a CULTURAL CITY OF WORLD FORMAT. However, Mozart’s hometown and its SURROUNDING MUNICIPALITIES offer numerous opportunities for WONDERFUL DAY TRIPS. They are CHILD-FRIENDLY, action-packed, and fun. Text Daniela Stollnberger, Eva Goldschald Photos Schlossverwaltung Hellbrunn/Sulzer, Haus der Natur/Kressl, Zoo Salzburg
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hen families go on a trip together, everything needs to be planned. It must be fun for everyone, boredom is taboo, and organisational stress should be avoided if possible. Salzburg and its surrounding municipalities are quite aware of this. Their varied leisure and cultural activities ensure that every family member has a great time.
families to play and/or relax. In the midst of the Hellbrunn Palace gardens, visitors can find the popular trick fountains. They are not only welcome refreshment on hot days, but also a place where visitors can chill out.
Nature Experience Glasenbach Gorge
Experiments in the Science Centre, the fascinating world of the human body, and a journey back in time to an era when giant reptiles dominated the planet - the House of Nature (“Museumsplatz 5”) is at the top of the list whenever families plan a day trip in Salzburg. This is where big and small researchers can marvel at impressive exhibitions. In the aquarium, which is home to endangered fish and all sorts of marine animals, the colourful underwater world will make the eyes of your children sparkle. And don’t be surprised to see equally astonished adults. The House of Nature promised an imposing insight into the habitats of animals ranging from dinosaurs and mammoths to the ordinary domestic cat. The experiments in Austria’s most versatile Science Centre are a real highlight. This is where children can playfully become acquainted with physics. How does one build a circuit? How does solar power work? Why do I require less energy the longer the lever is? All these questions are explained to the children patiently.
To be honest, it isn’t really a gorge. It is actually an incision valley that channels a brook known as the “Klausbach”. The water has gradually made its way through the rocks and now reveals a view of 250 million years of history. It is a truly breathtaking natural spectacle. The hiking trail through the three-kilometre long Glasenbach Gorge in the south of Salzburg boasts many educational stations and is a popular destination for families. The first educational path was established more than 50 years ago. Thirty years later, the area was declared a protected landscape. While the adults read the numerous wayside information boards about the species-rich fauna and flora, the little hikers prefer to search for hidden fossils on their own steam. If they work up a sweat while running around, the Kneipp fountain promises welcome refreshment. Those who dare can test their skills in the balancing course. The municipality of Elsbethen has set up rest areas along the way for both short and long breaks.
Nature at First Hand in Zoo Hellbrunn On more than 14 hectares of land, this zoo is home to the largest animal community of Mozart’s hometown. More than 1,200 wild animals reside in the unique floodplains of Hellbrunn. Continental borders are irrelevant. Alongside native species such as ibexes and brown bears, more exotic inhabitants such as jaguars, capuchin monkeys, and lions feel just as at home - a journey of discovery from Eurasia to Australia. The zoo is also a scientific research centre for nature conservation, biology, and problem solving. It makes valuable contributions to the protection of nature and species every year. A few metres from the zoo, the most beautiful playground in the city and its extensive park invites
Expedition through the House of Nature
On Historic Paths Those who enjoy journeying into bygone times in tradition-steeped buildings, should consider a trip to the Salzburg Open-Air Museum. 100 original agricultural buildings and traditional craftsmanship invite visitors to Großgmain to join a fascinating expedition spanning several centuries. Old farmhouses, mills, chapels, general stores, and stables are embedded in the beautiful landscape. The result is a fairytale setting that is truly enchanting. A highlight, especially for children, is the museum’s railway. It chugs through the extensive grounds and stops at quaint railway stations.
Swing Paradise “Playful hikes through nature” is the motto of the so-called “swing trail” in Anthering. Here, hiking is combined with fun on swings. The trail starts at the kindergarten in Anthering (“Schmiedlingerstraße 3”). The four-kilometre route passes many swing sets that afford children an opportunity to let off steam and play. The six stations in total are varied and exciting for children attending kindergarten or elementary school. At the end of the hiking trail, which is incidentally also easily accessible with baby carriages - there are plenty of possibilities to quench both thirst and hunger.
Family Action in Wals
Salzburg Scavenger Hunt
The Soccerpark in Wals is the place to be for families that like to burn energy. True to the motto “Get in the hole!”, this wide-ranging park with an area of approximately 32,000 square metres is dedicated to so-called Soccergolf. The game is, in principle, just like golf and is played on an 18-hole course. The players are required to manoeuvre a ball through various obstacles with their feet and to sink it in the hole in as few kicks as possible. This new fun sport is played as a team and is perfect for all ages, companies, clubs, and school groups. Bend it like David Beckham or thump it like Roberto Carlos. How many “Holes in One” do you think you can score? Find out which strategy works best for you. Information: www.soccerpark.at
The so-called “Snitzl-App” allows its users to discover Salzburg in a completely different way. Both newcomers and real Salzburg connoisseurs can explore the city in varying degrees of difficulty. Guided by the app, players embark on a puzzle and treasure hunt to hidden places, into unknown streets, and also to famous sites of Salzburg. The app can be downloaded for free via the Google Play Store and the Apple Store. It promises an exciting, interactive scavenger hunt through Mozart’s hometown. By the way, the free Wi-Fi connection named “Salzburg Surfs” protects your data volume. Those who get tired along the way can use the Salzburg Card to travel home for free on public transport.
Museum visits, exploring, and nature: Salzburg and its surrounding municipalities offer a varied leisure programme for families. Surprises included…
Like a fairytale - the Mirabell Palace and its marble hall, which are surrounded by the beautiful Mirabell Gardens, are among the most popular locations for a civil wedding.
I DO!
MARRYING AND HONEYMOONING IN SALZBURG When two people decide to spend the rest of their life together, the WEDDING DAY needs to be perfect the venue, the decoration, and the obligatory wedding photograph. What is the PERFECT PLACE, you ask? It’s the ROMANTIC CITY OF SALZBURG. Text Eva Goldschald Photos Herzflimmern
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he most beautiful wedding hall in Central Europe is located in the Mirabell Palace. It can be accessed via an imposing marble staircase from the courtyard of the palace. Prince Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau built the complex - which was then known as Altenau Palace - for Salome, the love of his live, in 1606. Ten of his 15 children actually grew up in its rooms. Thus, this is the perfect place for promising eternal fidelity - with room for up to 125 guests. The cherubs frolic on the balustrade - stark naked, chubby little angels. Rumour has it that a quick slap of their buttocks ensures a happy future for the bridal couple. The palace also offers some beautiful rooms for the wedding reception. The Pegasus Room, for instance, can accommodate up to 40 guests. In fine weather, the idyllic Mirabell Gardens - the Rose Garden, the Dwarf Garden, or the Pegasus Fountain - offer a fantastic view of the fortress and the surrounding mountain landscape. After the wedding, many bridal couples are surprised with a champagne reception by their friends and family in this beautiful setting. In addition, the Mirabell Gardens are a fantastic location for photo shoots. Dates
for civil weddings in the Mirabell Palace can be booked up to six months in advance - either online via the diary, by phone, or by e-mail. The palace started offering registered partnerships for same-sex couples in 2010.
With God’s Blessing In and around Salzburg, there are many beautiful locations for church weddings. The breathtaking options include the monumental Salzburg Cathedral, the imposing Franciscan Church, and the University Church, as well as the magnificent collegiate church of St. Peter. The pilgrimage basilica of Maria Plain and the Hellbrunn Palace - both located near the city - are also epitomes of romance. After all, romance is undisputedly an essential part of every wedding. Not only the festivity itself, but also the days after the ceremony should be harmonious. And Salzburg offers countless possibilities to achieve said harmony. A ride with a so-called “Fiaker”, a horse-drawn carriage, is particularly popular. Routes include a trip along the idyllic Salzach or through the history-steeped Old
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Town. The park surrounding the Hellbrunn Palace and its trick fountains are perfect for picnics and relaxation. Those who desire to surprise their partner with an impressive view over the rooftops of Salzburg, can take a walk up the Kapuzinerberg at dusk. This mountain is a little quieter than the equally popular Mönchsberg. Kapuzinerberg can be accessed via the Linzergasse or the smaller Steingasse. Explore the many (often hidden) viewpoints.
Pure Relaxation One doesn’t necessarily have to travel far to treat oneself. Rustic mountain huts, a candlelight dinner high above the rooftops of Salzburg, or a romantic, nocturnal stroll through the Old Town or up the surrounding city mountains - the honeymoon is the culmination of a wedding. Once again, Salzburg offers countless options to make these days and weeks unforgettable - both in summer and winter. Further information about marrying and honeymooning can be found here: www.salzburg.info/weddings
Show off your traditional costume at the Rupertikirtag or experience the colourful bustle of the streets: Salzburg’s Old Town festivals exude traditional flair.
STREET LIFE IN MOZART’S HOMETOWN Salzburg may be small compared to other metropolises, but it is exceptionally charming. The RUSTIC ALLEYWAYS OF MOZART’S HOMETOWN house the ateliers of creative minds, traditional craft workshops, and international restaurants. Every year between April and October, these alleyways act as a VENUE FOR POPULAR OLD TOWN FESTIVALS.
Text Daniela Stollnberger Photos Tourismus Salzburg GmbH, Tourismus Salzburg/Günter Breitegger, Altstadt Salzburg/wildbild
HAND.KOPF.WERK 11th to 28th of April 2018
Old Town Festival Kaiviertel 1st and 2nd of June 2018
cafes and restaurants provide excellent food. The festival is one of the most tradition-steeped street festivals in Salzburg.
Traditional craftsmanship and imaginative creativity are united by the event series HAND.KOPF.WERK. During the two-week festival, creative minds showcase classic craftsmanship and stateof-the-art creations. There’s much to discover at workshops, DIY programmes, and guided tours. More than 80 Salzburg-based companies, manufactories, and agencies allow a glance behind the curtain at approximately 100 events. The portfolio also includes body treatments, alternative healing, coaching, and mediation. The events afford an opportunity to experience the Old Town in a completely new manner. By the way, admission is free in many cases.
At the beginning of summer, the Old Town Festival Kaiviertel is the perfect place for strolling and savouring. True to the motto “Around the World in 48 Hours”, the Kaiviertel district - located between Mozartplatz and Kajetanerplatz - presents itself at its best on six different stages. Bands provide musical entertainment, kids can enjoy free workshops, and young dance artists show off their skills. The district with its romantic squares, winding streets, and spectacular courtyards not only convinces with an exciting programme, but also with a truly relaxed atmosphere. A diverse mix and great offers are enticing for both locals and tourists - colourful and multi-cultural. Restaurants and retailers remain open to provide visitors with delicious delicacies.
Salzburger Rupertikirtag 20th to 24th of September 2018 The locals highlight these dates in September in their diaries every single year. The people of Salzburg simply adore the Rupertikirtag: 130 exhibitors, more than 80 activities, and 150,000 visitors year for year. From the 20th to the 24th of September, Salzburg’s most popular folk festival steals the show. Visitors can experience colourful traditional costumes, carousels and ghost trains, orchestras, traditional farm delicacies, and much more. A special highlight is the election of the official Ruperti Girl and Ruperti Boy. All information can be found here: www.rupertikirtag.at
Old Town Festival Linzer Gasse 29th and 30th of June 2018
Jazz & The City 17th to 21st of October 2018
Every summer, the Linzer Gasse and its adjoining alleyways turn into an even more appealing attraction. This event is the absolute highlight of June for young and old. The motto of the weekend is “party hard”. Residents, organisers, and local retailers invite the rest of the world to celebrate and stroll. Visitors can enjoy open-air performances of live bands, dance performances, and shows. The local
Salzburg welcomes international jazz stars for the 19th time. The Jazz & The City festival is an integral part of Salzburg’s event calendar and offers more than 100 concerts at 50 venues. Admission to all concerts is free of charge. The spirit of jazz is the spirit of openness. All information and the schedule can be found here: www.salzburgjazz.com
9th Salzburg Festival of Brass Music 10th to 13th of May 2018 Visitors can look forward to new facets and numerous musical genres at the “Salzburg Festival of Brass Music”. The range includes marching music, traditional brass music, solo concerts, and other extraordinary musical performances. Several societies and orchestras have promised to attend the festival on Residenzplatz in May. Brass music fans can enjoy impressive concerts by musicians from Austria and Bavaria free of charge. Further information and a schedule can be found here: www.blasmusikfestival.eu
MADE BY HAND Salzburg is the home of TRADITIONAL CRAFTSMANSHIP. In the midst of the modern stores in the POPULAR OLD TOWN, once can still find REAL TRADITIONAL BUSINESSES WITH CENTURIES OF HISTORY. Text Daniela Stollnberger Photos Tourismus Salzburg GmbH
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xclusive fashion stores and lovingly managed craft businesses - if one strolls through the streets of Salzburg’s Old Town, it is almost impossible not to spot the many smaller shops. They have been satisfying their customers with time-honoured, professional craftsmanship for several centuries characterised by an impressive history. They uphold old traditions, cultivate a passion for true craftsmanship, and attach great importance to traditional manufacturing techniques that have been handed down through generations. Allow us to introduce you, dear reader, to some of Salzburg’s most illustrious family businesses.
Jahn-Markl Trachten Since 1408 The city’s oldest tannery was opened more than 600 years ago. Initially, it provided armour, uniforms, and hunting clothing for the nobility. In Salzburg, Jahn-Markl Trachten is among the top sources for high-quality, exclusive leather and traditional clothing. In-house production allows customers to acquire suede dresses, slippers, belts, linen, and loden costumes on Residenzplatz. The owners place a special emphasis on the leather colour
“altschwarz”. It was created especially for Emperor Franz Josef I. Jahn-Markl Trachten | Residenzplatz 3
Gürtelmacher Schliesselberger Since 1820 When Schliesselberger opened its shop in “Dreifaltigkeitsgasse 4”, the business started with producing traditional bags and belts. Today, it manufactures leather belts, hip and chain belts, buckles, and selected women’s bags with great attention to detail. Those who pay Salzburg’s best belt maker a visit, may discover a few relics from ancient times in the time-honoured store. It is decorated with small furniture and old tools with which the manufacturers exercised their craft more than 100 years ago. Gürtelmacher Schliesselberger GmbH | Dreifaltigkeitsgasse 4
Teppichweberei Weiß Since 1843 The owner’s great-grandfather, Rupert Weiß, founded a carpet weaving mill that still combines a workshop and a retail store in Ge-
treidegasse. The tradition-steeped company is very eager to cultivate, preserve, and uphold craftsmanship. Customers can acquire handwoven rugs, exclusive carpets, special weaves, linen towels, aprons, seat cushions, and stucco carpets for their respective homes. Teppichweberei Weiß | Getreidegasse 18a
Schirmmanufaktur Kirchtag Since 1903 Kirchtag is the undisputed specialist when it comes to hand-crafted umbrellas and canes of the very highest quality. The store (“Getreidegasse 22”) has been supplying the locals with exclusive products since it went into business in 1903 and customers certainly appreciate its efforts. The hearts of collectors regularly miss a beat when they spot one of Kirchtag’s breathtaking individual creations. The store complements its product range with sturdy cases, bags, and gloves. By the way, if you have a broken brolly lying around somewhere at home, the workshop is more than happy to repair it. An absolute eye-catcher is an uncovered wall in the interior that is approx. 1,000 years old. Schirmmanufaktur Kirchtag | Getreidegasse 22
Creating something with your own hands, creating something new, and preserving well-tried work techniques - this is the heartfelt mission of Salzburg’s traditional craftsmen and craftswomen.
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200 YEARS OF „SILENT NIGHT!” Searching for traces in the SEVEN SILENT NIGHT LOCATIONS - composed by Joseph Mohr and Franz Xaver Gruber, the song "SILENT NIGHT!" CELEBRATES ITS 200TH ANNIVERSARY IN 2018. Reason enough to take a closer look at the song’s history and to celebrate its anniversary accordingly. Text Eva Goldschald, Alexandra Hawel, Photos SalzburgerLand Tourismus/Hintersee/Salzburg, Salzburger Adventsingen
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ore than 200 years ago, a Salzburg-based priest named Joseph Mohr wrote a poem titled “Silent Night!”. At his request to set it to music, Franz Xaver Gruber composed the world-famous melody two years later. On the 24th of December 1818, the two men performed the song together for the very first time in the St. Nikola Church in Oberndorf. To date, it has been translated into more than 300 languages and is a Christmas favourite every year. The message it conveys is the same in all languages and cultures: peace.
History and Present Salzburg is expecting a large number of visitors for the anniversary. Not only because of the anniversary itself, but also because of the numerous related events. On the 24th of November 2018, a musical play titled “My Silent Night” opens at Felsenreitschule Salzburg. In addition, nine museums and municipalities have joined forces for a decentralised exhibition, which will open its doors to the public on the 29th of September 2018. Part of this project takes place in the Salzburg Museum, where the exhibition “Silent Night 200 – The Story. The Message. The Present” is dedicated to the history of the song "Silent Night!". Based on the six stanzas of the piece, the exhibition is divided into six chapters and displays, among other things, the original manuscript of the setting composed by Joseph Mohr. Due to a reference to Franz Xaver Gruber in the top right corner, the melody can be attributed to the composer. Until the 3rd of February 2019, the exhibitions shed light on the various facets of the creation and distribution of the song. If you have thus far never heard the story behind this truly worldfamous Christmas carol, the celebration of its 200th anniversary is certainly the right time to catch up. It is safe to say that you will be hard pressed to find a year that offers more opportunities to explore the song’s background than the jubilee year.
In the Footsteps of Peace Those eager to delve even deeper into the history of Joseph Mohr should pay a visit to the address “Steingasse 31”. This is where one of Salzburg’s most famous sons lived during his childhood. A stroll across the Staatsbrücke will lead you to the Salzburg Cathedral. Just like Mozart, the future priest received his first ecclesiastical blessing in the cathedral’s historic baptismal font. Information about the programme, as well as an overview of all exhibitions, can be found here: www.stillenacht.com
The Salzburg Advent Singing Festival in Großes Festspielhaus also celebrates the 200th anniversary of “Silent Night!” by highlighting its history.
a visit to the renowned Salzburg Festival, or a romantic weekend for two, we are sure that we have the right deal for you.
IVAL FEST GE KA PAC
THE FOR UCK ESTR LOV
ILY FAM GE KA PAC Mid-July to August 2018
• 2 nights with breakfast buffet in a centrally located 5-star/4-star hotel • Ticket for “Everyman” performance on Domplatz (in the event of bad weather in Großes Festspielhaus, 2nd best category) • Discover Salzburg with the 24h Salzburg Card: free admission to the sights of Salzburg, as well as free use of public transport • Special culture tip: guided tour of the festival halls
All year except during Mozart Week, in August, on Advent weekends, and New Year’s Eve
All year except during Salzburg Festival and in December
• 2 nights with breakfast buffet in centrally located 4-star hotel • Discover Salzburg with the 24h Salzburg Card: free admission to the museums and sights of Salzburg, as well as free use of public transport
• 2 nights in a 4-star hotel with a rich breakfast buffet •1 glass of sparkling wine as welcome drink in the room • 1 romantic candlelight dinner and a classic music concert • “Fiaker” ride through Salzburg’s Old Town Package price per person: from EUR 259.–
Package price per person: from EUR 430.– Nonrecurring booking fee: EUR 20.–
T NIGH Y T N E SIL SAR IVER ANN
Package price per person: from EUR 138.– Nonrecurring service fee: EUR 20.–
Discover Salzburg’s most beautiful places, find the right deals for your dream holiday, and find out more about top events: www.salzburg.info
On Advent weekends from the 22nd of November to the 26th of December 2018
• 2 nights with breakfast buffet in a 4-star city hotel • 1 Christmas tour through the Christmas Market incl. tasting of delicacies and “Salzburger Christkindlmarkt” mug as souvenir • 1 admission to the special exhibition “Silent Night 200 - History, Message, Present” in the Salzburg Museum • Silent Night chocolate with booklet about the history of the song • Tip: “Silent Night!”-tour on 24.12.2018 with a Christmas party in the Silent Night Chapel in Oberndorf Package price per person: from EUR 199.–. Additional handling flat-rate for the entire reservation: EUR 18.–.
All package deals bookable at:
www.salzburg.info/packages #visitsalzburg
Book your hotel online: www.salzburg.info/hotel Order brochures online: www.salzburg.info/brochures The Salzburg Card online: www.salzburg.info/salzburg-card
Imprint. Publisher: Tourismus Salzburg GmbH, Auerspergstraße 6, 5020 Salzburg, www.salzburg.info. Production: UCM Verlag, Salzburg/Anif, www.ucm-verlag.at. Art Direction/Graphics: Kathrin Machmer. Text: Alexandra Hawel, Cay Bubendorfer, Daniela Stollnberger, Eva Goldschald. All information is supplied without guarantee - March 2018.
EXPERIENCE MOZART’S HOMETOWN FIRST HAND – and take advantage of the best package deals. Whether it is a trip in the run-up to Christmas,