A hidden treasure in Salzburg, away from tourists, the Nonnberg Convent is a beacon of peace in the middle of the busy city. Tranquil and well maintained, you’ll enjoy visiting the convent and you can climb up the cobbled staircase to grab a breathtaking view of the iconic city.

Founded by Saint Rupert in 714, it is the oldest religious house for women in Europe. The endowment of the abbey was provided by the Duke of Bavaria, Theodebert. The abbey has become famous internationally because of Maria Augusta Kutschera, the real life inspiration of the movie ‘Sound of Music’. Visitors will be able to recognize certain parts that were used in the film. The abbey was selected as a motif on a commemorative coin, along with the castle of Hohensalzburg and the Kajetaner church.

The church is built in Gothic styling and reflects prosperity and complex ornamentation. A splendid winged altar is adorned by an emerging Madonna between St. Rupert and St. Virgil. The interiors’ design is unique, with detached columns and reticulate rib-vaulting. Highly artistic frescoes decorate the church and examples of artistic masterpieces are displayed upon the sepulcher. The convent houses a range of artifacts including furniture with intricate carvings if ivory, an ancient crucifix, crowns and different works of art. The convent is a collection of numerous buildings, built in a variety of architectural styles.

The convent is a lovely place to visit, whether you want to pray, seek scenes from the movie or just find some peace and quiet. Keys to the frescoes and the altar can be obtained on request at the entrance. You can feel the calm of the courtyards and walkways, where devotees have walked for centuries. It’s not as lavish as many of the European churches, but it still quite a sight to see with its lovely architecture and historical significance. The convent is easy to access via a long uphill path or you can reach the convent on foot, from the Kaigasse and Nonntal. There’s an added benefit of stunning views from the high roadway surrounding the abbey.

• This is a wonderful place to go if you’re seeking peace and quiet.
• It’s not very popular amongst tourists yet.
• This is where the real life inspiration for Maria (from The Sound of Music) used to reside.
• It’s dark inside, you have to pay a very small fee for lighting.
• It’s quite a walk up.
• Recommendations: Each evening in May at 7:00, the nuns of Nonnberg Convent sing a 15-minute service called Maiandacht in Gregorian chant. Their beautiful voices can also be heard at the 11 PM mass on Christmas Eve.

• Entry is free.

• Timings may vary. Please ask locally or call before visiting.

• Buses are available.
• Taxis are available.
• It is walking distance from most of the sights in the city.
• Bus 270 stops at Salzburg Justizgebäude (Hellbrunner Straße) bus station.
• Rent or hire a car/taxi.

• Purzelbaum
• Festungsrestaurant
• Restaurant K&K

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