Residenzplatz is a large square in Salzburg’s Old Town, between the city’s former archbishop’s residences and Salzburg Cathedral. Its centrepiece is the Residenzbrunnen, a Baroque marble fountain with horses, dolphins, giants and a figure of Triton. Look around the square to see the historic buildings and the Glockenspiel tower. At Christmas, market stalls bring Austrian food, local produce and handmade decorations to the square, with lights and traditional music. It is also a convenient starting point for exploring nearby sights on foot.
A square framed by Salzburg’s landmarks
Residenzplatz lies in the centre of Salzburg’s Old Town, on the left bank of the Salzach. The large open square is framed by the former archbishop’s residence, the New Residence and Salzburg Cathedral. The Old Residence stands on the western side; the New Residence is opposite, to the east. The Cathedral borders the square to the south.
The square was laid out on the site of a former Roman Forum and was once called Hauptplatz, or Main Square. Its later name comes from the Old Residence, which served as the home of Salzburg’s rulers, the prince-archbishops. The surrounding buildings place several of the city’s major landmarks within a short walk of one another.
The Residenzbrunnen and the Glockenspiel
The fountain at the centre of the square is known as the Residenzbrunnen. This Baroque marble work depicts horses emerging from water, with dolphins and giants among its sculpted details. At the top, Triton sends a stream of water from a conch shell. The fountain gives the broad square a clear focal point, and its sculpted figures are worth a closer look as you cross between the surrounding buildings.
The New Residence has a tower containing Salzburg’s Glockenspiel. Its carillon has 35 bells, imported from Antwerp, and plays pieces associated with Michael Haydn and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The tower also houses the Salzburg Museum. The former archbishop’s residence contains a gallery of European paintings dating from the 16th to the 19th centuries.
Christmas markets and the Old Town
During the Christmas season, market stalls fill Residenzplatz with local produce, handmade decorations and Austrian food. Twinkling lights and traditional music add to the square’s seasonal atmosphere. The market is a popular time to visit, so an earlier stop can make it easier to browse before the evening crowds gather. Some vendors may take cash only.
Residenzplatz also appears among the Salzburg locations associated with The Sound of Music. The square and its fountain feature in the film’s Salzburg locations, alongside places such as Mirabell Gardens and St. Peter’s Cemetery. Horse-drawn carriages depart from the square for rides through the Old Town. From here, you can continue on foot to the Cathedral and other historic squares nearby.
FAQ
Where is Residenzplatz in Salzburg?
It is in Salzburg’s Old Town, on the left bank of the Salzach, beside Salzburg Cathedral and the former archbishop’s residences.
What is the fountain in Residenzplatz called?
It is the Residenzbrunnen, a Baroque marble fountain decorated with horses, dolphins, giants and a figure of Triton.
What can you see at Residenzplatz at Christmas?
Seasonal market stalls sell local produce, handmade decorations and Austrian food. The square is lit and has traditional music.
How can you avoid the Christmas market crowds?
Go earlier in the day. Crowds tend to build after 6 PM during busy periods.
