Salzburg - Residenzplatz, Austria
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Residenzplatz - Wikipedia
Residenzplatz, a large and stately square located in Salzburg's historic center (Altstadt), Austria. It was originally called Hauptplatz. Now it's named after the Alte Residenz, the Old Residence of the Prince Archbishops of Salzburg. It is one the most visited places in the city. [1][2]
To the east and west, the Residenzplatz is enclosed in Salzburg Cathedral (Salzburger Dom). The Neue Residenz [de] is to the east, a Renaissance building built from 1588 onwards with its prominent bell tower. The square is framed by several historic private houses (Burgerhauser), including the temporary residence of Johann Michael Rottmayr, a Baroque painter. 2 where he resided while creating ceiling frescos in the Alte Residenz. The Salzburg Museum is located adjacent to Mozartplatz. [1][2]
After Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau ordered the removal of the former monastery cemetery that used to lie north of Salzburg Cathedral, the Residenzplatz was built. Recently, remnants of the medieval cemetery were discovered beneath the square's surface. Raitenau had many private houses that were demolished in order to make space. According to Vincenzo Scamozzi's plans, the new public square was originally called Hauptplatz (Main Square). It coincided with the construction of the Salzburg Cathedral. [1][2]
Currently[when? The square is currently being renovated, with a new paving and monument to commemorate the Nazi book burning that took place at the spot on the 30th April 1938. [citation needed]