Mozartplatz is a historic square in central Salzburg, Austria, named for the composer whose bronze statue stands at its centre. Pause here to take in the surrounding architecture, look towards Hohensalzburg Fortress, or listen for piano music and nearby church bells. The square also puts the Salzburg Museum, the cathedral and the Residenz within easy reach. Cafés around the edge make it a convenient place to sit with a coffee or beer between sightseeing stops.
A square shaped by Salzburg’s rulers
Mozartplatz was created on the order of Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau. In 1604, he directed the removal of houses from the site to make room for the square. Its original centrepiece was a Baroque fountain topped by a statue of St Michael. That fountain was removed in 1841, when preparations were made for the monument to Mozart.
The square’s history is closely tied to the buildings around it. On its north side, the Imhofstöckl at number 5 contains the tourist information office. Part of the old city wall lies behind the building; the wall dates to the period of Prince-Archbishop Paris Lodron, who ruled from 1619 to 1653.
The Mozart monument
The bronze statue at the centre of the square was made by Ludwig Schwanthaler and erected in 1842, about 50 years after Mozart’s death. Mozart’s sons attended its unveiling. The monument gives the square its name and makes it a natural place to pause while exploring the composer’s home city.
Mozart was born in Salzburg in 1756. His widow, Constanze Mozart-Nissen, lived at Mozartplatz 8. The house is one of the personal links between the composer’s story and the buildings around the square.
Museums and historic buildings nearby
The Neue Residenz occupies the south side of Mozartplatz. It has housed the Salzburg Museum since 2007, so the square can be paired with a museum visit. On the west side, the view leads towards Salzburg Cathedral. The square also connects with the Residenzplatz, placing several historic sites close together.
Nearby cafés give you a place to stop for a drink, and the surrounding streets have restaurants and shops. The square is used as a meeting point as well as a place to sit and look around. Seasonal Christmas-market activity takes place at the adjoining Residenzplatz, with stalls selling traditional souvenirs.
FAQ
What is Mozartplatz known for?
Mozartplatz is known for the bronze statue of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart at its centre and for its historic buildings in central Salzburg.
Who made the Mozart statue in the square?
The bronze monument was made by Ludwig Schwanthaler and erected in 1842. Mozart’s sons attended its unveiling.
What can you visit near Mozartplatz?
The Salzburg Museum is in the Neue Residenz on the south side of the square. Salzburg Cathedral and Residenzplatz are also nearby.
Is Mozartplatz accessible for wheelchair users?
The square has a wheelchair-accessible entrance.
