Salzburg Old Town, also known as the Historic Centre of the City of Salzburg or simply Altstadt, is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. It is a unique ensemble of Medieval and Baroque buildings and attracts millions of visitors annually. The Old Town is legally a district of Salzburg with regulated building activities to preserve its ancient structures.

This historic district covers a large area that includes the Old Town on both sides of the Salzach River, the inner Nonntal area, the Festungsberg hill with the Fortress Hohensalzburg, the entire Mönchsberg hill, and the Kapuzinerberg hill with the Capuchin monastery. Salzburg’s major tourist attractions are mostly within this area.

UNESCO designated it a World Heritage Site in 1996, recognizing the significance of Salzburg as a residence for Prince Archbishops and a spiritual center in Central Europe. The Old Town preserves some of the oldest ecclesiastical and monastic buildings north of the Alps, such as St. Peter’s and Nonnberg monasteries, and the Salzburg Cathedral (Salzburger Dom).

The skyline of the Old Town is distinguished by spires and cupolas of many churches, narrow lanes, small squares, and colorful Baroque facades of the burgher houses lining the Salzach River. The Old Town is closely associated with Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, music traditions, and the Salzburg Festival.

Key highlights in Salzburg Old Town include:

• Mozart’s Birthplace on the famous shopping street Getreidegasse

• Residenzplatz and Domplatz squares with Baroque buildings, fountains, and churches

• Fortress Hohensalzburg dominating the skyline

• Historic lanes like Steingasse and squares like Mozartplatz and Kapitelplatz

• The Old Town Hall, a historical building with a Rococo façade from 1772, that today houses galleries and municipal offices

The Old Town is renowned for its magical atmosphere, combining rich cultural history and well-preserved architecture, making it one of the best-preserved city centers north of the Alps.

In summary, Salzburg Old Town is a culturally rich, visually stunning area brimming with history, music heritage, and beautiful Baroque and medieval architecture, recognized worldwide for its cultural value and charm. It is also very walkable and filled with attractions, shops, museums, and scenic spots that reflect its profound musical and ecclesiastical heritage.