One interesting story about the monastery is that during the Napoleonic Wars in the early 19th century, the monks at St. Peter's hid a large amount of treasure, including gold and religious artefacts, in a secret chamber within the monastery to keep it safe from looting. The catch was discovered in the early 20th century and can now be displayed in the monastery's museum.
Another exciting story is that the Monastery was a centre of learning and culture during the Middle Ages, and its library was one of the most important in Europe. Many famous figures such as scientists, philosophers and artists visited the Monastery to study in its library, known for its vast collection of books and manuscripts.
Additionally, the Monastery's church is known for its beautiful Baroque architecture and its impressive frescoes and paintings. The church is still used for religious services and is open to visitors who want to see its beautiful art and architecture.
Overall, the Monastery of St. Peter has a rich history and has played an essential role in the religious, cultural and intellectual life of Salzburg and Europe.
The Hohensalzburg Castle in Salzburg, Austria, is a stunning medieval fortress that sits atop a hill overlooking the city. It was initially built in the 11th century to protect the Archbishop of Salzburg. It has been expanded and renovated over the centuries to become one of the most impressive castles in Europe.
One interesting story about the castle is that in the 16th century, the Archbishop of Salzburg, Markus Sittikus, commissioned the famous composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's father, Leopold Mozart, to design and build a magnificent palace within the castle walls. Leopold, who was a skilled musician and composer himself, created a court that featured beautiful frescoes, ornate furnishings, and a grand ballroom where the Mozart family would often perform.
In addition to the palace, the castle also features several other exciting attractions, such as the Golden Hall, adorned with gold leaf and intricate frescoes, and the Torture Chamber, where visitors can see instruments of punishment used in medieval times. The castle can be reached by a funicular railway from the city or by a hike up the hill.
Today, the castle is a major tourist attraction, and it is open to the public for tours. Visitors can explore the palace and other parts of the court and take in the beautiful views of Salzburg and the surrounding Alps. It is a must-see place for anyone visiting Salzburg.
But let us first visit the catacombs at the bottom of monk hill. It is worth noting that the Catacombs are not prominent places, and they may not offer the same experience as some of the more famous catacombs worldwide. But it is a fascinating historical site that gives a glimpse into the past of Salzburg and offers a different perspective on the city's history.
