Mirabell Palace and Gardens

Mirabell palace and garden
History

The Mirabell Palace and Gardens are among the most fabulous places in Salzburg, Austria. They were built in 1606 by Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Reitenau for his beloved Salome Alt and their 15 children. Initially, the Palace was named after her the Altenau Palace. However, after Rautenau’s death, it was renamed Mirabel by his next owner, Marcus Sitticus. Mirabell comes from the Italian words “Mirabile” (delightful) and “Bella” (beautiful). It is interesting to know that Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart himself played in the Palace.

The design of the Gardens was completely changed in 1690 by Johann Ernst von Thun. They became even more colorful and majestic. The Gardens were created in a north-south direction and towards the direction of the Hohensalzburg Fortress and Salzburg Cathedral. Only 40 years later, the design has been changed again. At this time, the place was recognized as one of the most beautiful baroque gardens in Europe!

Mirabell Palace and Gardens Today

Love continues to float in the air because the place is a favorite decor for wedding parties! Fairytale weddings and photo sessions often take place there. Also, many conferences, festive ceremonies, and concerts are held in the Palace’s Ceremonial Halls. The Marble Hall is a reserved place for them, while the staircase leading to it is decorated with numerous cherubs. You can get a ticket to visit music concerts, and enjoy beautiful music in a wonderful atmosphere.

The Mirabell Palace houses the City Council and its rooms are not open to visitors.

In the Gardens you can see many sculptures, different colored gardens, an outdoor theater with hedges, a palm tree conservatory, even a dwarf garden.

Visit

  • The Mirabell Palace and its buildings are free to enter, but check their opening hours before visiting.
  • The Marble Hall has shorter business hours and closes if special events take place.
  • The Hedge Theater and the Dwarf Garden are closed during the winter months.

Accessibility

Mirabell Palace and gardens are accessible for people with disabilities.

More top Attractions in Salzburg:

Salzburg – the city
Hohensalzburg Fortress
Salzburg Cathedral
Hellbrunn Castle
Mozart House Museum
DomQuartier