Salzburg EURO 2008 Travel Guide

Salzburg Euro 2008 City Profile

Population: 150,000

Located on the banks of the Salzach river, Salzburg is renowned as the setting for the famous musical ‘The Sound of Music’. The city is also the birthplace of famous musician and composer Mozart.

Salburg’s cultural heritage doesn’t end with its connections to music – the city also houses three universities and is recognised as a World Heritage Site. The city is also home to an impressive medieval fort that provides excellent views of this historic city.

Salzburg City History

Founded: 700 AD

Salzburg has been a human settlement since the stone age. The area rose to prominence in the middle ages when it became an important control point in the salt trade on the Salzach river.

In later years Salzburg was notorious for its protestant purges. As a reaction to the philosophies of Martin Luther, the Archbishop of Salzburg forced all protestants off their lands and out of the city.

During the Second World War the history of purges continued, with the city hosting a concentration camp. The city was bombed several times during the war, resulting in widespread destruction of infrastructure. However the Baroque old-town survived untouched and today provides a unique and well-preserved window into the past.

Salzburg City Culture

Official Language: German

Salzburg provides an unforgettable experience of European high culture. Classical music devotees can visit the house where Mozart was born and brought up. During the Euro 2008 Salzburg will also be hosting one of Europe’s most celebrated events, the Salzburg music festival.

While in Salzburg don’t miss the opportunity to visit the famous salt mines. Visitors to the mines get to slide deep into the bowls of the earth and enjoy picnics in massive salt caverns. For centuries the salt mined in the mountains of Salzburg was considered to be a rare and valuable commodity.

Salzburg EURO 2008 City Travel

Closest Airport: Salzburg W.A. Mozart International Airport

For Euro 2008 travellers visiting Salzburg by plane the Salzburg Airport connects to dozens of major European airports. The airport is within a 20 minute drive of the city center.

For EURO 2008 travel by train the Haupbahnof offers a wide variety of destinations in Austria and Europe. The station offers an hourly service to Euro 2008 travellers planning to attend matches in Vienna.

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