Festung Hohensalzburg

Festung Hohensalzburg (Hohensalzburg Fortress) is a massive 11th-century fortress complex located on a hilltop overlooking the city of Salzburg, Austria. It is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval castles in Europe. It is one of three fortresses built as part of a defensive strategy to protect the interests of the prince-archbishops of Salzburg, who were powerful political figures in the Holy Roman Empire: Petersberg in Friesach, Hohenwerfen Castle, and Hohensalzburg Fortress.

All three fortress were commissioned by Archbishop Gebhard of Salzburg in 1077. This was during a tumultuous period in Salzburg’s history, marked by political unrest and the Investiture Controversy between the Pope and the Holy Roman Emperor. These three fortresses were meant to provide armed protection and secure important routes, particularly against the forces of King Henry IV of Germany. The three fortresses served as outposts of Salzburg’s power and influence. Petersberg in Friesach, being located in Carinthia, was particularly important as a southern outpost of Salzburg’s territory, Hohensalzburg Fortress, located in the city of Salzburg, Austria and Hohenwerfen Castle, situated in the Salzach valley, about 40 km (25 miles) south of Salzburg city.

Over the centuries, successive archbishops of Salzburg continued to expand and develop the Hohensalzburg fortress. It acquired its current appearance around 1500 under Archbishop Leonhard von Keutschach. Despite various revolts and attacks over the years, the fortress was never conquered, a testament to its strong defenses. By the late 19th century, the complex was abandoned and used as a barracks and prison before being opened to the public.