I wonder if Mozart’s music was ever inspired by his birthplace. It’s as if the founders envisioned their new city as a future tourist haven.
Salzburg, though nestled in a flat, green valley, holds itself up high and proud. In the background, the imposing Austrian Alps watch quietly from a distance. Church towers prominently dot the city skyline, while a turquoise river courses underneath, passing stately homes and blissful sunbathers laid out on shore. It’s a city of music, of Catholicism, and higher learning. Culture is its middle name.
None of that matters to me, though. I came to Salzburg for one reason and one reason only: The Sound of Music.
I’m talking about one of the greatest American musicals ever made. A film immortalized on the silver screen, with songs like “Do-Re-Mi” known to virtually every American. And it was filmed in Salzburg! Don’t worry if you haven’t heard of it, because I don’t think it’s well known outside of American audiences. Most Salzburgers probably haven’t seen the movie, but they cater their tourism industry around it for the money.
I didn’t mind how foolish I looked on the tour bus with other fans, singing along to the movie’s soundtrack. It didn’t strike me as pathetic posing next to buildings and landscapes that were shot in the film. I worship The Sound of Music, and Salzburg is my Mecca.
But by no means think that’s all there is to this town. In fact, I recommend taking the musical tour just to get out into the countryside. Beyond Salzburg are lakes and mountains so breathtaking, I’d rather show a photo than rely on words.
Take note of the water. Motorboats are forbidden in it. The results are heavenly, clear, and blue.
Remember what I said in my last post about Austrians living the good life? I stand more firmly by that statement now. It’s no wonder you’ll never see a “for sale” sign on countryside houses in Austria. Families love their homes so dearly, they only pass them on to the next generation.
My one surprising discovery, however, was that Salzburg has a seedy district. Given what I had read about Salzburg and all its high-brow culture, I didn’t expect to be lulled to sleep by the sounds of hookers working their corners.
But like many of Europe’s red-light districts, I appreciate that there is nothing to really fear in such…”unsavory” parts of town. Salzburg seems totally safe no matter where you are. The city is in good repair, and the old town is well-preserved to retain its classic character. Salzburg’s biggest problem is probably locals being crushed by stampeding tourists.
Otherwise, Salzburg will always be connected to The Sound of Music for me. Through songs like this, it taught me to seek the beauty in life’s ups and downs. I think the filmmakers chose a great location for that message.
Tip of the day: Reach the peak of Mt. Untersberg in the Austrian Alps just outside town, by cable car! Who said mountaineering needs to be challenging?
