Mirabell Palace & Gardens

Overview

Mirabell Palace and Gardens is a Baroque ensemble on the right bank of the Salzach, famous worldwide from The Sound of Music's 'Do-Re-Mi' sequence. The geometrically laid-out gardens with their Pegasus fountain frame a perfect view of the fortress.

Highlights

• Pegasus Fountain: The central marble fountain surrounded by four sculptural groups representing the elements.
• Dwarf Garden (Zwerglgarten): A quirky Baroque garden with 28 marble dwarf figures from 1715.
• Marble Hall: One of the world's most beautiful Baroque wedding halls, where Leopold Mozart and his children performed.

History

Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich built the palace in 1606 for his mistress Salome Alt. Archbishop Franz Anton von Harrach redesigned the gardens in 1727. A city fire in 1818 destroyed much of the palace; only the Marble Hall, grand staircase (with Raphael Donner putti), and gardens survived intact.

Visitor Tips

• Gardens are free and open daily from 6:00.
• Marble Hall is free to visit when no events are scheduled.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.