Herbert-von-Karajan-Platz

As you exit Sigmund’s Gate, you will come across Herbert von Karajan Square and the famed “Horse Pond,” which goes back to the 17th century. Parade horses from the prince-archbishops’ stables were cleaned and groomed here, in the heart of today’s Festival District.

Sigmund’s Gate, located at the foot of the Mönchsberg cliffs, leads to Herbert von Karajan Square and the old city of Salzburg. Herbert von Karajan Square was named after the famed Salzburg-born conductor. In 1967, he created the Salzburg Easter Festival, and in 1973, he founded the Salzburg Whitsun Festival.

Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach conceived and erected the Horse Pond on today’s Herbert von Karajan Square in 1603. It was initially used to wash the prince-archbishops’ parade horses. Some of the habits of the period are evoked by the statue of the “Horse Tamer” and the distinctive murals on the rear wall of the Horse Pond.

Fans of the film “The Sound of Music” should visit Herbert von Karajan Square. Maria and the Trapp children marvel at the famed plaza and the distinctive Horse Pond while riding in a carriage around Salzburg.