During the early 90s, the DVD was not yet widely used in the Philippines. Back then, it was still the Betamax that was "IN". My favorite Betamax movie back then was Julie Andrews', "The Sound of Music". I think I have watched the film more than 10 times. So when I arrived in Europe some months ago, I swore to myself that I will visit the place where "The Sound of Music" was born...Salzburg, Austria!
Last weekend, I did not only go to Vienna, but I likewise had the chance to see Salzburg. Since Margaret had to join their group tour during the day, I decided to take the train to Salzburg, about 3 hours away from Vienna. I left Vienna as early as 6:00am. Lucky me, there were very few people on the train so I had an entire compartment all by myself. The train ride was utterly expensive! 47.50 euro for a one way ticket!
From the station, I went to the Tourist Information Center to get a map of the city. I didn't take any public transportation because I wanted to just walk and absorb the beauty of the surroundings.
My first destination was Mirabell Palace and Gardens. I loved the meticulously landscaped gardens and statues of Roman gods.
Another highlight during my visit was seeing a newly married couple with their entourage.
Next, I went to Mozart's Residence just a stone's throw away from the Mirabell Gardens.
In order to get to the other side of town, I had to cross the Makartsteg Pedestrian Bridge over the Salzach River. Ohhhh bike lanes, I wish we have these in the Philippines!
After crossing the bridge, I walked further towards the Old Town and saw Mozart's Birthplace. Of course I didn't miss Salzburg′s busiest alley, the Getreidegasse, which is said to be the most fashionable shopping mile in the city and also the most expensive. I loved the scenic medieval alley which was bustling with people at the time of my visit. Apart from the luxurious shops, there were also lots of shops selling Mozart Chocolates wrapped in gold foil with his face on it. So cute!
I passed by rows of cafes and souveneir shops at Alter Markt. I also took a seat at Mozart Square in the middle of the afternoon.
This is the Residentzplatz Square. There were very few people in the area, making it look even more vast than it already is. Horse-drawn carriages, chic cafes, souveneir shops and a life-sized chess board added life to the square.
I could not miss this mighty fortress dominating the skyline, the Salzburg Castle or Festung Hohensalzburg. Too bad it was closed that day.
Just nearby is the Domplatz or the Cathedral Square. The main attraction in the area is of course the Baroque church Salzburger Dom Cathedral, which is the first Cathedral in Salzburg.
I was never a fan of cemeteries, but I did not miss visiting St. Peter's Cemetery in Salzburg. This area reminded me once again of "The Sound of Music". This was where the Von Trapp Family hid from the Nazis. There was no eerie feeling at all.
Before I bade goodbye to Salzburg, I took one last look at the stunning city and swore to myself that I will come back someday.
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