Salzburg celebrates Mozart's 270th birthday with five iconic landmarks
Salzburg is marking the 270th birthday of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in 2023. The city still holds many traces of the composer's life, from his childhood home to the grand halls where he performed. Five key locations remain, offering a direct connection to his time in the Austrian city.
Among these is Europe's oldest restaurant, where Mozart once dined. Today, visitors can experience his legacy through concerts, exhibitions, and even themed dinners in the very places he frequented.
Mozart was born at Getreidegasse 9, where he lived until 1773. The family later moved to a house at Makartplatz 8, known then as the 'Dancing Master's House.' There, he composed The Magic Flute on an ink-stained clavichord that still draws curiosity.
At just six years old, he gave his first court concert in the state rooms of the Prince-Archbishop's Residenz. The same venue later hosted the premiere of his Violin Concerto in A major. Today, these rooms form part of the DomQuartier complex, which also includes the Residenz Gallery, Cathedral Museum, and St. Peter Museum. Mozart was not only a musical prodigy but also a skilled dancer, especially in the minuet. His charm and talent made him a regular at social gatherings, including the lively events at the former Stiegl Brewery in Gstättengasse. Another favourite spot was Sternbräu at Griesgasse 23, a historic brewery still standing today. St. Peter's Abbey, home to the St. Peter Stiftskulinarium at Sankt-Peter-Bezirk 1/4, holds a special place in his story. Founded in 803, it is Europe's oldest restaurant and now hosts Mozart-themed dinner concerts. The composer's love for the city's vibrant culture is still celebrated through performances, exhibitions, and events across Salzburg. Decades later, his influence reached pop culture when the Dutch Bolland brothers co-wrote *Amadeus* with Falco in 1985. The hit song introduced a new generation to Mozart's name, long after his death in 1791.
Five major sites in Salzburg remain tied to Mozart's life and work. His birthplace, residence, and performance venues continue to attract visitors from around the world. The city's celebrations in 2023 keep his music and memory alive through concerts, themed dinners, and public exhibitions.
