Mirabell Palace is a historic building in Salzburg. The palace and its gardens are listed as a cultural heritage monument, just one of a number of buildings that form the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Historic Centre of the City of Salzburg. Salzburg is admired and protected for the large collection of high quality buildings and stunning architecture that ranges right from the Middle Ages up to the 20th century, creating a beautiful townscape of wide variety and individuality.
Mirabell Palace, like the majority of historic buildings in Salzburg, is located close to the river Salzach. It was originally built in the early 1600s by Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau as a token of his love for his mistress Salome Alt. When the Prince-Archbishop was arrested Salome and her family were forced out and the palace received its current name of 'Mirabell'.
In the early 18th century it underwent redesign in a lavish Baroque style under the rule of the new Prince-Archbishop. A large marble staircase was built, paintings and frescos added and the gardens were remodelled too. The Marble Hall was once an area for balls and concerts but now is a popular place for weddings and receptions. The palace also holds the mayor's offices and rooms of civic leaders.
The famous gardens have been added to since they were first designed and built in the 17th century, and a substantial remodelling took place around 1730. Interesting statues representing the four elements remain from the 1600s and the famous Pegasus Fountain was added much later. In 1965 the gardens became one of the famous settings for The Sound of Music during the iconic 'Do-Re-Mi' scene.
Mirabell is a beautiful place to visit and the gardens are sure to brighten up your day. The Marble Hall where Mozart himself once performed is open at various times throughout the week and the different areas of the gardens are generally open daily.
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