In the early stages of planning, I don't remember if we ever considered seeing Salzburg. We focused primarily on Vienna with a side trip to the lakeside town of Hallstatt. Salzburg was never mentioned until we tried to find a way to reach Hallstatt. As our plans solidified, the town by the lake faded from the picture and the city better known as the birthplace of Mozart came into view. With so much attention and anticipation placed on Vienna, little did I expect Salzburg to be the place that captured my imagination.

On Tuesday, we set out on foot to explore the town. We crossed one of many bridges connecting the banks of the River Salzach. Ever in sight, high on the hill, was the Hohensalzburg Fortress (photo upper left). On the right side of the river was a network of narrow cobblestone streets lined with tall shops and houses (photo), which were perfect for pedestrians and gave Salzburg much of its charm. Every so often, the narrow passages opened into spacious plazas where fountains or statues stood (photo).

As the day progressed, we tried to reach higher ground. One path leading up to the fortress provided a nice view of the Dom and town center (photo upper right). Continuing up the path and around the hill, just beyond the Nonnberg Priory, revealed a view of southern Salzburg (photo lower left).

Daylight was leaving when we finally made our way back across the river. In one last burst of adventure, we decided to climb a steep and narrow staircase tucked between two buildings on a tiny side street. The stairs wound their way up to the Church and Monastery of the Capuchins at the top of the hill. From there, we could see across the rooftops as the last of the light faded (photo lower right).

Tomorrow, I'll post photos of the Dom, which deserves an entry of its own.