The cathedral of Salzburg dominates with its distinctive, two-towered façade and the mighty building the image of the old town. The baroque squares that surround it form a unique stage, used by the Festival and recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
The present cathedral had two medieval predecessors, of which remains can be seen in the crypt. The first cathedral was dedicated to St. Virgil 774. Under Archbishop Hartwik (991-1023), this building was extended, under Archbishop Konrad I (1106-1147) provided with two western towers.
In 1167, the cathedral, which was still in the core, still burned down. Archbishop Konrad III. (1177-1183) then built a huge, Romanesque new building that was 110 m long, had five towers and probably resembled the Domen in Mainz and Worms. After a fire in 1598 he was demolished.
The foundation stone of the existing baroque cathedral was laid in 1614. In 1628 he was consecrated by Archbishop Paris Lodron. About forty years later, the towers and surrounding squares were completed.
The baroque structure impresses with its clear forms, the uniform decor and the luminous facade made of local marble. His architect, Santino Solari, came from Italy. He created the most important church building of the time north of the Alps, which influenced the architecture throughout Austria and southern Germany.
Over all, Salzburg Cathedral is an awesome cathedral, huge crowds and you could enjoy the musical concert with an affordable ticket price. Enjoy!