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Across from the Gardens, along Schwarzstrasse, you will find the Famous
Mozarteum ,
which promotes and protects the image of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart by
providing support for concerts, museums and academic research on Mozart and
his works. There is not a lot to see here, except in the summer when
you can visit the Magic Flute Lodge in association with events held in the
Grand Hall of the Mozarteum. The Lodge is where Mozart is reputed to
have written sections of the Magic Flute, after being locked in (at his own
request), by one of his retainers. 
 Perhaps
the most interesting attraction on the right bank of the river is the Mozart
Wohnhaus (residence) where Mozart and his family lived during his childhood
and as his ascent to
greatness began.
In the late 18th century, Mozart’s family relocated from their home on the Getreidegasse and moved across the Salzach River to the area today known as
the Makartplatz. A major portion of the house, which faces the square, was destroyed
during a bombing raid in World War II. The destroyed
section eventually was reconstructed
(after the land had been converted to an office complex) and opened to the public as part of a Mozart Museum in 1996. We
recommend the tour for those interested in Mozart, his music writing and his
early career.
The personal audiophone, which is included in the entrance fee, dispense
significant and interesting information about Mozart. Some of the more
interesting commentary is focused on the influence his family members had on
his early career. It is apparent that his mother was loving and
doting, while his father seemed to take on many of the undesirable
characteristics that we associate with "stage fathers". Mozart's sister
Nannerl was also a music prodigy, but was limited by the society of the
times and eventually forced to abandon her music. Her contributions to
Mozart' success, however, are heralded in several of the museum's displays.
There is a map display that shows the lengthy travels of the young Mozart as
he toured the royal courts of Europe. The routes crisscrossed Europe
and provide an affirmation of Mozart's popularity, even at a young age. The
distances traveled were enormous and contributed to the maestro's fragile
health. The map is followed by a audio-visual presentation that is
quite well done. Another interesting aspect of the tour is that you will
be able to experience a close-up of Mozart’s personal life when the dialog
on the audiophone reveals the content
of his personal letters, many of which are on display. One concept
that we had had missed was that Mozart was unhappy living in Salzburg, which
he considered something of a backwater. Sorry Salzburg! Mozart's goal was to reside in Vienna.
See this
official website
for more information on the Mozart Residence (click on the Wohnhausunder the "Museen"
tab).
One other attraction in this area might be on interest to those of you with
a sweet tooth. Along the Salzach near the Makart Steg is the Hotel
Sacher Salzburg, home of the world-famous Sacher Torte, which has become
something of a culinary institution in Austria. Click
Sacher for more
information on the both the hotel and its café that serves this
delicious dessert. If you do not want to try one while in Salzburg (or
Vienna, Graz and Innsbruck), they ship worldwide. Perhaps we should have
warned you that traveling in Austria is a high calorie adventure?
Next - The
Hellbrunn Palace and Water Gardens
Or -
Return to our Salzburg Home Page
Or -
Return to Best Places to Visit in Austria
If you need information about another travel destination, try
our
Destination Guide Index
or Googling ThereArePlaces.
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