Description of the attraction
Salzburg Cathedral is located in the heart of this city. Its modern building dates back to the early 16th century and is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture.
The first religious building on this site appeared in the 8th century, while Saint Virgil, one of the first bishops of Salzburg, acted as its builder. Now the temple is consecrated in honor of both patrons of Austria - Virgil, who died in 784, and Rupert, who died more than half a century earlier.
Salzburg's first cathedral was burned down in 1167 by order of Emperor Frederick Barbarossa. Subsequently, the temple burned down several more times during numerous fires, so in 1598 the archbishop ordered to destroy all damaged buildings near the old cathedral and to build a new temple designed by the architect Santino Solari. Construction began only in 1614, and the solemn lighting took place 14 years later - in 1628. It is believed to have been the most lavish celebration in the history of all of Salzburg.
A fire broke out in the cathedral several times, but did not lead to large-scale destruction. However, during the bombing of the city during the Second World War, the dome of the building collapsed, the restoration of which was delayed for 15 years.
Salzburg Cathedral is now a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. The portal of the temple is decorated with figures of two patrons of the city - Saint Virgil and Rupert, as well as figures of two apostles - Peter and Paul. Two 81-meter towers flank the cathedral's façade with three bronze doors. The dome is located just below the towers - its height is only 79 meters.
The interior of the cathedral amazes the imagination with its luxurious decorations, as well as its length. In total, the temple can accommodate about 10 thousand people. There are 11 altars and 5 organs in the cathedral. Among the details of the interior, it is especially worth noting two old bells, cast in 1628, as well as a bronze font from the 14th century, in which little Mozart was baptized.
