Schloss Ritzen Museum

The Schloss Ritzen Museum houses a huge collection of folkloric items as well as farming displays from the Saalfelden region. Located in a historic castle that dates back to the 13th century, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and present of this area.

The museum has several permanent and temporary exhibitions that showcase various aspects of the local culture and history. Some of the highlights include:

• The folkloric collection: This collection features a wide range of items that reflect the traditions, customs, and beliefs of the people who lived in the Saalfelden region. You can see costumes, masks, musical instruments, tools, toys, and more. The collection also includes a rare display of Xandi Schläffer’s nativity scenes, which are intricately crafted and depict scenes from the Bible and everyday life.
• The farming collection: This collection illustrates the agricultural and rural life of the Saalfelden region. You can learn about the different types of crops, animals, and products that were cultivated and produced in this area. You can also see how the farmers and peasants lived and worked in their homes and fields.
• The image collection: This collection contains a large number of paintings, drawings, prints, and photographs that depict the landscapes, buildings, and people of the Saalfelden region. The collection is especially notable for its works by Gottfried Salzmann, a renowned watercolour painter who was born in Saalfelden and whose paintings often focus on the theme of pilgrimage.
• The pre- and early history collection: This collection covers the ancient and medieval history of the Pinzgau region, of which Saalfelden is a part. You can discover the archaeological findings and artifacts that reveal the origins and development of the human settlements in this area. You can also admire the Romanesque frescoes of Saalfelden-Wieserberg, which are among the oldest and most valuable examples of mural painting in Austria.

The museum is open from May to October, from Thursday to Sunday, from 11:00 to 17:00 hours. From June to September, the museum is also open on Tuesdays, from 11:00 to 17:00 hours. The museum is closed on Mondays and public holidays.

The admission fee is 5 euros for adults, 3 euros for students and seniors, and free for children under 14 years old. There are also discounts for groups and families.