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One of the best decisions a traveler can make for their Salzburg trip is to explore places outside the city’s historic center.
Take a day trip from Salzburg and see how beautiful Saint Gilgen, Hohenwerfen Fortress, and Berchtesgaden are! Hellbrunn Palace, located 30 minutes from Old Town, also comes highly recommended. As a wanderer, I can’t emphasize enough how amazing Hellbrunn Palace is.
At first, it appeared to me as though it was just an ordinary princely estate.
But after exploring it, I started to believe that it is one of Austria’s most creative engineering feats from the seventeenth century.
As its name suggests (named after “clear spring”), Hellbrunn Palace is home to spectacular water-powered attractions, which are the features that make it a must-see.
Hellbrunn Palace also turned out to be one of the most beautiful and interesting places in Salzburg that I’ve discovered.
It has heavily adorned halls and interesting exhibits that I think wanderers would love to see. You’ll discover so many things about Markus Sittikus (Hellbrunn Palace’s first owner) and cultural events in Salzburg.
Whether you are still looking for another place to visit or you have already decided to visit Hellbrunn Palace, I have everything you need to know about it here. Let me help you make the most of your visit.
A glimpse to Hellbrunn Palace
Attractions and Features
Even though Hellbrunn Palace gets tons of visitors each year, it’s still a great spot to unwind after checking out the busy Old Town of Salzburg.
The garden is huge, so you’ll always find a place to chill and catch your breath. Just kick back by the garden ponds and watch the swans and fish do their thing. You’ll feel your exhaustion disappear.
In some parts of the garden, the only sound you’ll hear is the crunch of gravel under your feet as you stroll around. But, as you probably already know, there’s more to Hellbrunn Palace than just a nice walk around the grounds.
When you buy an entrance ticket, you get access to all the cool and beautiful parts of the palace. We’ll talk more about them below.
1. The Sound of Music Gazebo
Did you know that Hellbrunn Palace has a part that you can see in a movie?
It’s the gazebo in the palace garden and it was featured in the movie “The Sound of Music.” You can find it immediately after entering the garden, just a few steps from the main gate.
If you love “The Sound of Music,” the first thing you can do at Hellbrunn Palace is imagine the movie scenes. You can picture Liesl getting her first kiss in the gazebo while singing “16 going on 17.”
You might find these interesting!
2. Trick Fountains
If you’re planning a visit to Hellbrunn Palace, I highly recommend dedicating a good portion of your time to exploring the Trick Fountains.
The Trick Fountains are the amazing features of the palace garden: water automats, grottos, and fountains that are both fascinating and entertaining.
They are the highlight of visiting Hellbrunn, alongside the exhibition inside the palace. They showcase the unique character of Hellbrunn Palace and offer unforgettable experiences that you won’t find anywhere else.
8 best trick fountains in Hellbrunn Palace
The Royal Table is the trickiest among the Trick Fountains.
Located in the Roman Theater north of Hellbrunn Palace, it’s a magnificent marble table with a water channel running down the middle to cool drinks.
Guests sat on stone stools surrounding the table, but had to beware – water jets could shoot out from all the stools except for one belonging to the Archbishop. The guests were at the mercy of their host, the Prince Archbishop, who could activate the jets at any time, leaving them with wet trousers.
Another feature of Hellbrunn garden to look for is Orpheus Grotto, located on the western end of the parterre.
It’s this cave-like building in the garden that shows how much the Prince Archbishop was into music.
When you head inside, you’ll see Eurydice, who’s passed away, listening to her lover, Orpheus, playing the violin. Their sculptures portray that Orpheus is so good using the violin that even wild animals relax when they hear him play.
Aside from the lovers, there are a few things you should keep an eye out for when you’re in the grotto. Take a look at the ceiling. It’s got these tube sinters and stalactites – it’s so well done that it makes you feel like you’re in the underworld.
Look for the ibex too. It’s this animal that represents Prince Archbishop Markus Sittikus, along with the lion. You may also want to take a closer look at Eurydice’s necklace, which is very interesting. Others believe that she’s got this medallion with Markus Sittikus’ face on it.
As an architecture enthusiast, you simply must visit the Big Grottos of Hellbrunn Palace’ Trick Fountains.
Tucked in the palace basement, you’ll be amazed by the stunning sculptures and vibrant ceiling decorations made of colored stones. But be warned – you might get caught in a surprise splash during your visit to the Big Grottos. It’s all part of the magic!
The Big Grottos are made up of 5 smaller grottos, which you can expect to see as you explore the interiors.
Small Grotto 1 — Neptune Grotto
Neptune Grotto is the first part of the Big Grottos and, in my opinion, the most spectacular. Its walls and ceilings are completely covered with marble, tuff stone, and shell mosaics. It’s truly a breathtaking sight!
The most amazing part of the grotto is the white marble statue of Neptune, the sea god. Below it is the sculpture’s special feature — a Germaul (grimacing face) that moves using hydraulics. It can roll its eyes, stick out its tongue towards the viewer, and even tilt its water-filled lower jaw forward from time to time.
Did you know that this Germaul mask in the Neptune Grotto may have been Markus Sittikus’ way of getting back at his enemies? Rumor has it that he used the mask to stick his tongue out at those who envied him. Indeed, it’s a funny rumor!
By the way, you can expect to get a little wet from the hidden water tubes that allow artificial rain to pour on you while you marvel at Neptune Grotto’s interiors. But don’t worry, it’s not too much and it’s all part of the experience that Prince Archbishop Markus Sittikus wanted his visitors to have.
Small Grotto 2 — The Mirror Grotto
After visiting the Neptune Grotto, the Mirror Grotto is next.
The interior gives the impression of being inside a mirrored cabinet due to the concave and convex mirrors set into the stucco walls. It is one of the Big Grottos, designed by Markus Sittikus to invoke reflection and curiosity among visitors.
Small Grotto 3 — The Birdsong Grotto
Big Grottos has some truly unique, surprising, and amazing features! Take the Birdsong Grotto, for example, the next grotto after the Mirror Grotto.
As the name suggests, this section of the grotto is filled with the sounds of birds, all produced by a hydraulic mechanism. Get ready to be fascinated by this incredible auditory experience! After the Birdsong Grotto, return to the Neptune Grotto. The entrance to the other side of the Big Grotto, the Shell and Ruins Grotto, can be found there.
Small Grotto 4 — The Shell Grotto
As you make your way to the left of Neptune’s Rain Grotto, you’ll find yourself in the enchanting Shell Grotto.
Here, you can take in the richly colored stucco, ornaments, and paintings that decorate the ceiling and walls; admire the images of ibex heads, fruit, and other decorations made from shells. It’s simply a wondrous work of art that gives more identity to the Trick Fountains.
Small Grotto 5 — The Ruins Grotto
The last of the Big Grottos is the Ruins Grotto. Located just behind the Shell Grotto, this mysterious world of artful destruction awaits you.
You’ll see arched curves bending away and cracks and holes opening to reveal lower layers of walls and beams. The door lintel crumbles, and everything threatens to collapse. This mannerist masterpiece is a symbol of transience and decay, designed to disorient and unbalance you, which is also an interesting feature of the Trick Fountains.
Another notable part of the Trick Fountains is the Star Pond. As you make your way towards the entrance of the Big Grottos, the Star Pond will catch your eye, with the Altemps Fountain and the Fountain Grotto adding to its beauty.
Here you can admire the semicircular fountain grotto that surrounds the pond, with Perseus perched above it, triumphantly holding the head of Medusa. The lower wall is a work of art, with figures representing the four seasons.
The highlight, however, is the Altemps Fountain, which serves as the most important spring system for the trick fountains. Take a few moments to appreciate it flowing in stages over three basins, its cascades beautifully decorated with diverse mosaics.
As you stroll along Prince’s Way in the Trick Fountains of Hellbrunn Palace, you’ll come across five small grottos that are sure to capture your imagination.
These hydraulically driven Renaissance water automatons have withstood the test of time, surviving almost 400 years in Hellbrunn. Yep, they are another must-see in the Trick Fountains as they’ll provide you a unique and watery glimpse into the past.
Each grotto features a different scene, from a knife-grinder hard at work to Apollo flaying the satyr Marsyas, Perseus battling a sea monster to rescue Andromeda, a miller grinding grain, and a potter’s workshop.
Like the goddess, Venus Grotto is a beautiful spot in the Trick Fountain you must not miss seeing.
Here, you will see the goddess of love, standing in a grotto and watching over her fountain. A unique feature of this grotto is the real bouquet of flowers at Venus’s feet, which stays fresh for many days due to the moisture provided by a water curtain from a dolphin statue.
Another interesting feature of the Venus Grotto are the two small turtles connected by a jet of water. It took me a while to find them, but maybe you’ll be quicker, I guess!
A visit to Hellbrunn Palace would be incomplete without seeing the Mechanical Theater, which is another highlight of the Trick Fountains. It is only a short walk from Orpheus’ Grotto, so you should be able to see it right away.
This water-powered masterpiece is a delightful depiction of the life and bustle of a small baroque town. With its 163 moving figures made of lime wood, you’ll see various professions and market stalls, including citizens going for a walk, musicians playing music, butchers slaughtering a calf, and many other craftsmen at work. All of these figures are driven by a single water wheel, making it a fascinating display of engineering and artistry. That’s why it’s a must see!
Another notable feature of the Mechanical Theater is its hydraulic organ. As you listen, you’ll hear a craftsman’s song from the opera “Le maçon” by Daniel Auber from 1825, as well as the duet “Là ci darem la mano” from Mozart’s Don Giovanni.
As you cross the small bridge, you’ll enter the mysterious Crown Grotto, a hidden gem in the Trick Fountains of Hellbrunn Palace. Completed only after the death of Markus Sittikus by his successor, the grotto holds secrets and surprises for you to discover.
Inside, you’ll see a brass crown suspended in mid-air, propelled by a jet of water. You can watch as it rises and falls, symbolizing the transient nature of power.
But that’s not all. If you venture to the back of the grotto, you’ll find a corridor with walls adorned with artistry.
There, you’ll find a story-telling group of figures, carved from Untersberg marble, depicting a dramatic scene: Apollo, the god of music, threatens the satyr Marsyas with a knife. Marsyas had dared to challenge Apollo, claiming to play the flute and lyre more beautifully than the god himself. But he lost the competition and now faces a cruel punishment – being skinned alive by the vengeful god.
3. Palace Exhibitions
Although Hellbrunn Palace may not appear as grand as other European palaces, it has artistic features that will truly amaze you.
So, even if you have limited time or feel satisfied with the experience after seeing the Trick Fountains, make sure to tour the Palace. (especially since it’s included in the tickets you’ll be buying to enter!)
8 Parts of Palace Exhibitions in Hellbrunn Palace
After being amazed by the Trick Fountains, you might find yourself wondering about the man behind Hellbrunn Palace. Like, who was the creative genius responsible for such unique engineering? Where to go to know him?
Look no further than the “Prince for Church and Country” exhibition, where you’ll discover the many facets of Markus Sittikus’ life, from his political career to his role as a clergyman. It’s the first part of the Palace exhibits, which has the portrait of Markus Sittikus in his prime, painted by Donati Arsenio Mascagni, as the highlight.
Aside from learning about Markus Sittikus, you can discover more about the geographical features of Hellbrunn in the exhibit titled “The Villa Outside the City.”
There are several things you can find in the exhibit, but as a map nerd, the map of Hellbrunn from 1630 immediately caught my attention. If you check it during your visit, you’ll see:
- Sacral park
- Belvedere Chateau
- Watzmann view
- Stone theater
- Different viewing points over the estate
- Monatsschlössl Chateau
- Salzburg Zoo
- Pleasure house
- Hellbrunn’s garden with water parterre
- Palace Chapel
- Hellbrunn Palace
- Hellbrunn Gate (in proximity to Sound of Music’s gazebo)
- Trick fountains
- Hellbrunn alley
Another part of the palace exhibits is called “Melancholy and Death,” which allows visitors to have a glimpse to the events that occurred after the life of Markus Sittikus. In this exhibit, you’ll find a variety of objects and informative displays that provide insight into the funerals and legacy of Markus Sittikus.
Interestingly, the Hellbrunn Palace exhibition offers a fascinating glimpse into the interests, curiosities, and passions of 17th-century royalty; into their unquenchable thirst for all things strange and exotic.
They’re located in the “Princely Nature” room, which has a collection that includes artworks of various creatures from scientific studies, folklore, and fantasy … as well as paintings of plants and flowers with realistic detail. All the things they collect.
You can expect to see artworks of pelicans, alpine ibex, forest devils, unicorns, vultures, exotic cockatoos, native wildlife, and much more.
One that might interest you is the White Reindeer from the 17th century, which was received by Prince Archbishop Guidobald Graf von Thun and Hohenstein as a gift from the Swedish King Karl XI.
Another intriguing piece is the Sunflower from 1618, which was mentioned by Sittikus’ chronicler, Johannes Steinhauser, as being “extremely large” and grown in the newly built princely pleasure garden of Hellbrunn. It was quite exotic for Europe at that time.
You might also be interested in the 17th century artwork of an Orientally-clad man with an eight-legged horse, which according to the image inscription, was presented in 1673 in the Salzburg Residence.
Lastly, there’s the Hausen from the 17th century, which depicts a beluga sturgeon weighing 238 pounds (133 kg) caught in the Salzach river in Tittmoning in 1617.
For all art and architecture enthusiasts out there, the Ceremonial Hall is the must-see part of the Hellbrunn Palace for you.
It is the heart of the palace and stands out with its rich paintwork and fascinating use of perspective.
It took me a while to take in the wonder it shows, though! The hall was used both as a retreat for Markus Sittikus and as a place to receive guests. Its artworks in its walls and ceiling would have visually impressed any courtly visitor, and you are sure to be no exception!
Designed in 1616 by court painter Donato Arsenio Mascagni, the hall features stage-like illusionist architecture and fresco-secco paintings that make the room appear much larger than it actually is.
You’ll be amazed by the open blue sky, depictions of Florence and Venice on the longer hall, and heralding animals above the door leading to the multimedia show.
These animals, an alpine ibex with a lion, are symbols from the prince-archbishop’s coat of arms and embrace with a Latin motto, NUMEN VEL DISSA IUNGIT, above them that means “the sacred binds opposites.”
Other frescoes of the Ceremonial Hall feature several depictions of virtues, including divine justice and goodness, strength and unknown identity, wisdom and humility/knowledge, moderation and reason of state, faith and hope, and the personification of the virtue of love and Vita Breve.
A unique experience awaits you in the Octagon hall of the Hellbrunn Palace.
In this part of Palace Exhibits, you’ll be transported to a world of musical motifs and illusionist architecture. Like, as you explore this extraordinary room, you’ll be enveloped by the fascinating acoustics, where every tone is intensified by the architectural design that acts like an amplifier.
You can imagine yourself in the 17th century, listening to the same music that Markus Sittikus would have enjoyed.
In the exhibition, you’ll also learn about the performance of Monteverdi’s opera L’Orfeo in Salzburg in 1614, which made history as the first opera performance north of the Alps.
In one room of the Hellbrunn Palace, visitors can experience a captivating multimedia presentation about the Salzburg Carnival dating back to 1618. This informative and entertaining animation reconstructs a fascinating world full of bizarre traditions, games, and costumes unique to Salzburg.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the presentation is the depiction of people dressed as Native American Indians or wild forest men, which is quite surprising in addition to the traditional Beating of the Pigs event. You can check the resources section of this post for a link to a Youtube Video about Salzburg Carnival.
The Chinese Room is the last (but not least) part of the exhibitions in the Hellbrunn Palace.
In terms of design, it is the most unique place in Hellbrunn all because of its walls that are adorned with exquisite 18th-century Chinese wallpaper.
Interestingly, they are crafted in south China exclusively for European buyers. In the center of the room, a globe stands as a testament to the world as it was known during Markus Sittikus’ time. Using it, you can marvel at how trade and globalization reached different corners of the world in the 17th century.
Don’t leave without taking a peek out the window – a breathtaking panorama awaits, with views stretching across the palace park to the idyllic Monatschlössi Chateau, built in 1615 to enhance the palace’s picturesque setting.
4. The Little Month Palace
Wandering in the Hellbrunn garden, I’m more than sure that you’ll notice the lone building perched on a hilltop, overlooking the entire Hellbrunn estate. That building is the Little Month Palace.
And interestingly, it got its name from the rumors and legend that it was constructed in only one month. Would you believe that?
Anyway, today, the Little Month Palace houses the Folklore Museum, which you’ll have access to when you purchase an entry ticket to the palace.
5. Stone Theater
If you like going off-the-beaten-path, the Stone Theater is another place to be in Hellbrunn. It is located at the same hill where you can find Little Month Palace.
And nestled in the forest and surrounded by nature, the Stone Theater in Hellbrunn is a hidden gem.
Map of Hellbrunn Palace
To help you explore Hellbrunn Palace, here’s the map indicating the location of each point of interest in Hellbrunn Palace.
Visiting Information
If you’re planning a visit to the beautiful Hellbrunn Palace and Trick Fountains, it’s important to know that it is open daily from Spring to Autumn. The opening hours vary depending on the month, so be sure to plan accordingly:
- March (usually last week) to April: 09:30 am – 5:30 pm (Last admission is 4:30 pm)
- May to June: 09:30 am – 6:30 pm (Last admission is 5:30 pm)
- July to August: 09:30 am – 7:00 pm (Last admission is 6:00 pm)
- September: 09:30 am – 6:30 pm (Last admission is 5:30 pm)
- October to November (usually first week): 09:30 am – 5:30 pm (Last admission is 4:30 pm)
Please check the official website of Hellbrunn Palace for the exact start and end date of the visiting season, and announcements for the changes in schedule.
If you’re looking for a peaceful and serene experience at Hellbrunn Palace, you may visit early in the morning. The palace garden is open daily (all year round) from 6:30 am (until 9:00 pm), providing ample opportunity to relax, connect with nature, and take beautiful photos without any distractions.
Resources
So, that’s all that I can share with you about Hellbrunn Palace. If you have more questions and you want to learn more about the Hellbrunn Palace and Folklore Museum, please refer to the links below.
- Official website of Hellbrunn Palace
- Official website of Salzburg Museum (Folklore Museum)
- Youtube: Salzburg Carnival
- Youtube: Trick Fountains explainer video
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