Mönchsberg, Salzburg, Austria 1

Mönchsberg, Salzburg, Austria 1

Salzburg’s old city is encircled by 3 prominent hills. The Festungberg, the Kapuzinerberg, and the Mönchsberg. The “Monk’s Mountain” is named in honor of the Benedictine monks of St Peter’s Abbey at its northern tip.

It’s a grand place to take a walk. There are medieval fortifications, tree-covered alleys, and elaborate schlösses. Plaques in German and English explain Mönchsberg’s geology and dangerous history. Photographers can also find excellent shots of the old city during afternoon and early evening, when the sun is shining on the Festung Hohensalzburg and the Dom.

If you’re looking for culture, you can visit the Museum of Modern Art, pictured here at the top of the mountain elevator.