Beneath your feet lies a secret. Before the Mozart Monument was unveiled here in Mozartplatz, a Roman mosaic was discovered. Mozartplatz, formerly Michaelsplatz, is the square we’re standing on right now. In the heart of Salzburg’s Old Town, it serves as a tribute to the world-famous composer.
This is the Mozart Monument. It stands as a memorial to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The statue you see before you is a work by Ludwig Schwanthaler. It was meant to be unveiled in 1841. That year marked the 50th anniversary of Mozart’s death.
But fate had other plans. The discovery of a Roman mosaic delayed the ceremony. The mosaic was carefully recovered. Finally, on September 4, 1842, the Mozart Monument was unveiled. Mozart’s sons were present.
King Ludwig I of Bavaria played a vital role. He donated the marble pedestal. The dedication occurred a year after it was planned.
Take a closer look at the base of the Mozart Monument. You’ll find a copy of that Roman mosaic. It bears a Latin inscription. It reads “hic habitat felicitas, nihil intret mali”. This translates to “Here lives happiness. Let no evil in.”
The square itself has a rich history. Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau ordered the demolition of houses here in the early 17th century. This created the square. Originally, a baroque fountain with a statue of St. Michael stood here. It was replaced by the Mozart Monument in 1841.
The buildings surrounding Mozartplatz also tell stories. To the north is the Imhofstöckl. It houses the city’s tourist information office. Behind it, you can see a section of the old city wall. It dates back to Prince-Archbishop Paris Lodron.
Opposite, on the south side, stands the Neue Residenz. It is home to the Salzburg Museum. The museum showcases the art and cultural history of Salzburg.
Number 8 Mozartplatz has a special connection to Mozart. It was once the home of Constanze Mozart-Nissen. She was Mozart’s widow. On the west side, you’ll find the Salzburg Christmas Museum and the famous Café Glockenspiel. The poet Georg Trakl was born nearby in 1887.
Constanze played a crucial role in establishing Mozart’s legacy. She ensured that Mozart’s genius would never be forgotten. She followed the construction of this Mozart Monument from her window.
Mozart’s shadow looms large over Salzburg. His music and legacy continue to captivate the world.
As you stand here in Mozartplatz, take a moment to appreciate the history and artistry that surrounds you. The Mozart Monument is more than just a statue. It is a symbol of Salzburg’s enduring connection to its most famous son. It is a testament to the power of music.