Salzburg Cathedral 🇦🇹

Salzburg Cathedral (Salzburger Dom) is a magnificent seventeenth-century Baroque cathedral located in the Altstadt area of Salzburg, Austria. Dedicated to Saint Rupert and Saint Vergilius, this historic house of worship rests partially on the foundations of an ancient Roman town and an earlier eighth-century church. As you visit, you will experience a dramatic sanctuary completely rebuilt in the Baroque style under Prince-Bishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau and designed by architect Santino Solari.

Step inside to see the 14th-century Gothic baptismal font where famed composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was baptized in 1756. Outside, you can admire the dark grey stone body framed by a striking Untersberg marble façade, flanked by twin towers and statues of saints, evangelists, and patrons. Below the cathedral, the Domgrabungen excavation site displays Roman forum artifacts, mosaics, and old foundation stones.

Look for the three 1950s bronze doors representing faith, hope, and love, and marvel at the Maria Immaculata column positioned in Domplatz, which creates an optical illusion aligning a golden crown directly over the Virgin Mary when viewed from the arcades. You will also discover Austria's second-largest bell, the massive Salvator bourdon bell, housed within this legendary landmark.

What to see at Salzburg Cathedral

• 14th-century Gothic baptismal font used for Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's baptism
• Untersberg marble façade featuring statues of saints, evangelists, and three bronze gates
• Domgrabungen excavation site beneath the cathedral showcasing Roman artifacts and mosaics
• Salvator bell, the second largest bell in Austria among seven cathedral ringing bells
• Domplatz square with the Maria Immaculata column aligned with the cathedral façade

Visiting tips

Stand at the center of the arcades at the back of Domplatz to see the Marian column align perfectly with the crown on the cathedral façade.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Salzburg Cathedral is easy to reach on Salzburg’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Hohensalzburg Fortress. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Salzburg travel guide.