198 CultureShock! Austria
museums, then enjoy the view from the café.
The most photographed view is of the fortress from the
Mirabell Palace and the Mirabell gardens. Archbishop Wolf
Dietrich von Raitenau, who in spite of being a man of the
church, married Salome Alt in the late 16th century, had this
palace built for her and their many children. Even if you do
not enter the palace, no trip to Salzburg would be complete
without a walk through the beautiful gardens.
Construction of the Residenz in the town centre also
began under Archbishop Wolf Dietrich in 1595. A young
Mozart conducted many concerts in its Conference Hall. It
now houses the Residenzgalerie (primarily 17th and 18th
century art), the Modern Gallery and Rupertinum Collection
of contemporary art, as well as hosting art shows and musical
events. Tours of its state apartments are available.
Although not in the town centre, Hellbrunn Palace is
definitely worth a visit. This was the summer residence of
Archbishop Marcus Sitticus. The gardens are full of the water
tricks and games that he played upon his guests. The highlight
of the gardens is a theatre with 113 tiny mechanical figures,
all powered by water. Go with a good sense of humour, and
protect your camera.Innsbruck
Innsbruck’s Hofburg was built during the reign of Maria
Theresa and completed in 1777. The Rococo State Rooms can
be viewed and the gardens are a treat. The most impressive
room is the Giant’s Hall, which contains a ceiling fresco that
glorifies the House of Habsburg.
The Goldenes Dachl (little golden roof) is the signature
attraction. Contrary to the legend that it was built by ‘Friedrich
the Penniless’ to prove his wealth, it was commissioned by
Maximilian I. Dating from 1500, this small balcony on the
former Ducal Palace is topped with 2,657 gilded shingles. It
was built to commemorate Maximilian’s second marriage,
to Bianca Maria Sforza of Milan, in 1494.
On the edge of the city lies Ambras Castle, built in 1564 by
Archduke Ferdinand II for his wife Philippine, a commoner
who was never accepted by the royal family. It has some