Mozarteum

Internationale Stiftung Mozarteum

Salzburg's premier institution dedicated to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart houses his original manuscripts, personal possessions, and a world-class concert hall. It's essential for music lovers and provides deep insight into the genius of one of history's greatest composers.

Things to do

• Manuscript Exhibition — View original Mozart compositions and letters in the climate-controlled display rooms, including the Marriage of Figaro score and childhood sketches.
• Mozarteum Concert Hall Performance — Attend a classical concert or recital in the acoustically renowned Großer Saal, where international soloists and chamber ensembles regularly perform.
• Museum of Mozart's Residence — Explore the living quarters and personal effects in the adjacent townhouse, offering intimate insight into Mozart's daily life and family dynamics.
• Rare Music Collection — Browse one of Europe's most extensive libraries of Mozart recordings, scores, and historical documents in the specialized research rooms.
• Guided Archival Tour — Book a curator-led tour through the restoration workshop and storage areas to understand Mozart scholarship and preservation techniques.
• Chamber Music Recital — Attend intimate performances in the smaller Mozartsaal, featuring period instruments and authentic 18th-century performance practices.

Food to try

• Salzburger Nockerl — Three large soufflé dumplings dusted with powdered sugar, traditionally served as a sweet main course or dessert representing Salzburg's three hills.
• Mozart Kugel — Hazelnut or marzipan-filled chocolate bonbons with nougat centers, sold throughout Salzburg as the region's iconic confection named after the composer.
• Bosna — A spiced grilled sausage in a white bread roll topped with onions, mustard, and curry powder, beloved as authentic Salzburg street food.
• Stiftskulisse at Café in the Mozarteum — Coffee and Apfelstrudel served in the museum's own café, pairing Vienna's pastry tradition with views of the courtyard where Mozart once walked.
• Erdäpfelpuffer — Crispy potato pancakes served with applesauce or sour cream, a hearty Alpine comfort food available at local taverns near the Mozarteum.

Local customs & good to know

• Arrive Early for Manuscripts — The original documents have limited daily viewing hours and draw significant crowds, especially during concert season; plan to visit manuscript rooms first thing in the morning.
• Respect Concert Etiquette — Salzburg audiences follow strict classical concert traditions including no applause between movements, silence during performances, and formal dress expected for evening events.
• Language Considerations — While staff speak English, many exhibit labels and program notes are in German; obtaining an English-language guide or audio companion enhances understanding of historical context.
• Plan Around Concert Schedule — The Mozarteum's performance calendar drives visitor traffic and facility access; check ahead as rehearsals and recordings occasionally close exhibition areas without notice.

Nearby

• Salzburg (Upper Austria) — 0 km
• Mirabell Palace — 0 km
• Hohensalzburg Fortress — 1 km
• Salzburg Old Town — 1 km