Mozartplatz sits just east of Residenzplatz, separated from it by a covered arch passage. It is a quieter, more open square, dominated by the large bronze monument to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart at its centre. The Neue Residenz faces one side; the Salzburg Museum occupies the building's interior.
The Story
The monument was unveiled in 1842, with Mozart's two surviving sons present. It was a long time coming: Mozart had died in 1791, largely ignored by the city that now trades on his name. The statue, by Bavarian sculptor Ludwig Schwanthaler, presents him as a Romantic hero in a cape rather than the powdered court musician of his actual era. Franz Liszt reportedly performed at the inauguration concert, which was at least fitting.
The square is a natural point of transition. Coming from Residenzplatz to the west, it opens up the view toward the Salzach river to the east; continuing east, the streets narrow and the tourist density drops. For visitors who want to escape the main squares without walking far, the back lanes of the eastern Altstadt begin just beyond here.
The Salzburg Museum inside the Neue Residenz is the main institution on the square. It covers the history and culture of the city from Roman times onward, including the Mozart era. The Salzburg Christmas Museum in a corner building is a specialist collection covering the history of Christmas decorations and traditions.
Visiting
The square is always open and free. The Mozart monument is at its centre and requires no ticket. The Salzburg Museum in the Neue Residenz is closed for renovation until approximately spring 2027; on reopening it charges admission and is closed Mondays. The Glockenspiel in the Neue Residenz tower plays at 7 am, 11 am, and 6 pm daily, audible from anywhere in the square. The Staatsbrücke bridge and the river are a three-minute walk to the east.