Can you imagine a small chateau transforming into a farmhouse and then into an art gallery? That is the story of the Weiherhof in Salzburg. This old court in the Morzg district has a fascinating history.
The Weiherhof was first mentioned in the early 17th century. Back then, it was owned by the Domherren, the cathedral chapter’s directors. They referred to it as a small chateau. But the story of this place goes back even further. Around 1530, the Salzburg Cathedral Chapter built a “Schlössl am unteren Weiher” here. This translates to “small castle on the lower pond.” The “Schlössl am oberen Weiher” was what we know today as Wasserschloss Anif.
Around 1600, the Chiemsee bishops traded their hunting lodge Guggenthal to the Salzburg Cathedral Chapter for this “Schlössl ob der Gmain.” The Weiherhof got its name from a pond. This pond sat right at the edge of the cemetery terrace, south of the old building. Sadly, the pond was filled in during the early 20th century.
The Weiherhof also had a Meierhof, or farm. It was called “Weyerbauer”. This farm stood next to the main building. Today, you can find it at Biberngasse 29. On the west side of the former Meierhof are two coats of arms. These belonged to Ägid Rem, the Bishop of Chiemsee from 1520 to 1536.
In the early 19th century, the Weiherhof changed again. It became a farmhouse with living quarters and a stable. The stables were special. They had vaulted ceilings called “Böhmische Kappe”. They also featured marble pillars and marble feeding troughs.
Today, the Weiherhof is privately owned. Most of it is used as a residence. However, the former large stable now houses the Galerie Weiherhof. You can visit the exhibition space during opening hours.
The Weiherhof stands as a testament to time’s passage. From a bishop’s residence to a farmhouse and now an art gallery. It reflects Salzburg’s rich history. The Weiherhof is a hidden gem in Morzg that should be visited. It is also an example of a building with a very varied history.