Magazin Berchtesgaden

AUGUST 2022
No. 5 /
EXPLORE
Berchtesgadener Land
FOR THE WANDERERS
breathtaking
mountains
beautiful
sights
impressive
nature

Content
general facts 1
Big and small treasures of Berchtesgaden 4
Berchtesgaden National Park 15
Attractions around Berchtesgaden. 18
Hiking in Berchtesgaden 27
Skiing in Berchtesgaden 29
Salzburg 30
Impressions from the author`s point of view 43

The
beauty
of
nature

geographical
situation
genera
Berchtesgaden belongs to the
administrative district of Upper
Bavaria in the federal district of
Bavaria.
It is located in the region of the
Alps. Berchtesgaden forms with the
neighboring places Bischofswiesen,
Schönau am Königssee,
Marktschellenberg, and Ramsau
the region Berchtesgadener Land
and is surrounded by the Austrian
federal district Salzburg in the
south, east, and south-west.
In the village, the two rivers
Königsseer Ache and Ramsauer
Ache unify to the Berchtesgadener
Ache, which flows northeast to
Marktschellenberg.
important
things in
history
The Kehlsteinhaus and the oversized train
station are witnesses of the National
Socialism in Berchtesgaden. The regime
marked Obersalzberg as “Führersperrgebiet”
with the Berghof as its center. Also, the
declaration of the neighboring place
Bischofswiesen as the second seat of
government let the two terms Berchtesgaden
and National Socialism be associated.
Under the
reproach, the KPD
supported the
arson of the
Reichstag several
members of the
KPD were arrested
in Berchtesgaden
in the March of
1933.
1

l facts
culture
Several legends play in
Berchtesgaden and its
mountains. The origin of the
name Berchtesgaden should be
derived from the legend shape
“Berchta” which is the same as
the german “Frau Holle”. Another
legend says the name can be
brought back to a person called
Berchtold, whom a mermaid from
Königssee lead the way to salt
and showed him to work as a
miner.
Behind the famous Casper David
Friedrich,
Although the municipality
was a political symbol, the
airstrikes on 25 April 1945
were limited to
Obersalzberg, and
because of that the
infrastructure and
buildings of the
municipality weren`t
damaged.
As a sign of critical reflection on
the time of National Socialism
Berchtesaden opened the
“Dokumentation Obersalzberg”,
a place that teaches and recalls
the time of the NS.
2
a lot of artists, especially
landscape painters, Graphic
designers, and Copper engravers
used Berchtesgaden and its
surroundings as a motive for their
oil paintings and book
illustrations. Musically
Berchtesgaden can be found in
the “Kindersinfonie” by Edmund
Angerer.
Ludwig Ganghofer dedicated the
municipality to a whole series of
his novels and Peter Ostermayr
has been appointed as an
honorary citizen for his many
movies, produces in
Berchtesgaden.

3

Big and small treasures
of Berchtesgaden
4

THE ROYAL CASTLE
From Romanticism to Gothic and Baroque to
Rococo, a variety of Epochs of style shaped the
royal castle. During the centuries the castle changed
in appearance and size. Originally the building
served as a hunting lodge. After 1810 the castle is
considered a summer residence of the
Wittelsbacher, one of the oldest german highly noble
families. Crown Prince Ruprecht from Bavaria lived
there with his family from 1922 to 1933 and let the
rooms be decorated with artistic exhibits from
Wittelsbach. Expensive furniture, beautiful porcelain,
and paintings from famous artists conclude the
impressive furnishings. The view from the Upper rose
garden is considered the most beautiful view in the
whole place.
Today it is still the Residential castle of the Wittelsbacher and serves as a secondary residence
for Franz Duke from Bavaria for several weeks in the summertime. Behind the high-quality art
collection, the Deer museum and the small but beautiful rose garden can be found in the royal
castle.
A visit to the impressive castle is possible with a guided tour but within 60 minutes a lot worth
seeing sites of the castle just as the suit from the crown prince, the gothic hall, or Renaissance
halls can be visited.
the deer museum
A total of 1880 goat skulls and 3425 drop-off
poles are presented in a new conception in
the deer museum since the 100th Birthday of
Duke Albrecht from Bavaria in 2005. The
collection is available to the public and
scientistic studies. The collection deals with
the results of the research over several
decades that Duke Albrecht from Bavaria
carried out. For his research, he received an
honorary doctorate from Ludwig-Maximilians-
University Munich.
5

THE SALT MINE
Another highlight for tourists visiting Berchtesgaden is
certainly the visitor’s mine where salt is mined until
today. Visitors will find out the exact procedure of salt
extraction after entering the mine. Tourists can learn
from interesting short films and impressive Laser shows.
A 1400-meter-long ride on the visitor train brings the
tourists inside the salt mine while wearing the typical
overalls. Further highlights of the guided tour are the
Miner`s slides taking the visitors deeper into the salt
mine and a ride over a salt sea.
an eventful history
The mine in Berchtesgaden is the oldest still
active salt mine in Germany. It all started with
the attack on the Petersburg tunnel in 1517. In
2017 the salt mine celebrated salt mining for
over 500 years, the hard and strength-pulling
work of the miners, the unique traditions, and
the technical development.
Dinner inside the salt mine
Behind the regular guided tours, a dinner inside the salt mine in the evening can make the visit to
Berchtesgaden unforgettable. In this event, a delicious buffet gets connected with tension,
mysticism, and adventure creating a diverse experience for the senses. While eating, visitors can
learn everything about the work of the salt miners in a special ambiance.
6

HOUSE OF
MOUNTAINS
At the entrance to the town is located the House of Mountains, a center for information and
education. In the exhibition of Germany’s only National Park of the Alps, tourists can experience
the unique nature of the german alps from lake Köngssee to mount Watzmann. In a big room in
the center, the exhibition “Vertikale Wildnis” is located where visitors can find out more about
domestic nature. Tourists can learn everything about life from the bottom of lake Königssee to
the peaks of mount Watzmann and discover the habitats of water, forest, alpine pastures, and
rocks. Light and sound installations create a special feeling of the changing seasons. The
highlight of the exhibition is the mountain vitrine at the end of the tour with a view of mount
Watzmann. Because then the replicated nature gets connected with the real national park.
Enviromental
Education Centre
The Education Centre with its 4 modern
equipped rooms is perfect for groups or
school classes. In the meadow kitchen,
the water laboratory, the forestry
workshop, and the rock view can the 4
main habitats be discovered.
informative outdoor area
Even the area around the center is a place of
experience and education. Behind the
meadow, water, and forest place is in the
outdoor area the “Lahner-Kaser” located, a
historical alpine hut that was built in 1848 in
the area of mount Watzmann.
7

SANCTUARY CHURCH
MARIA GERN
The Sanctuary Church Maria Gern is located in a high valley north of Berchtesgaden at a
height of 700 meters. It is a popular goal for hikers because it distinguishes itself to have a
great view of mount Watzmann.
the church
The first chapel was already built in the
16th century in the place where the church
today is located. But in the year 1680, the
chapel was torn down and a new church
was set up. But more Pilgrims came,
therefore Heinrich Maximilian Baron from
Piesser tor the church down again to build
a bigger one. The church how it is today
arose from several renovations with the last
one in the year 1983.
the sanctuaries
Since the 16th century, Maria Gern is
popular in sanctuaries because of the
image of Grace of Maria and his son. With
the statue of Maria, the number of Pilgrims
increased so much, that a hostel and a
small shop were built near the church.
the interior from Maria
Gern
The floor plan of Maria Gern is an oval with
the altar room in the north and the vestibule
in the south. Worth seeing is not only the
image of grace of Maria and Jesus but also
the high altar. The votive pictures on the
walls give insight into the changes in the
church. Another highlight is the over 20
ceiling frescoes.
8

FRANCISCAN
MONASTERY
The monastery was originally set up for
the Augustinian-Choirwomen as “Kloster
am Anger” in the 14th century and
extended between 1480 and 1519 to the
monastery church “Unser Lieben Frau am
Anger”. 1564 was the year, the women’s
monastery was dissolved because it stood
empty for 10 years.
In the year 1695, the whole complex
including the church was handed over to
the Franciscan reformers of the Bavarian
Franciscan province who used it until
1985. And since 1987 polish Franciscans
of the Upper Silesia Franciscan province
took over the pastoral care tasks of the
church and monastery.
Parts of the monastery complex have been used differently for a longer time: for example
from 1868 to 1975 for the district court of Berchtesgaden, from 1988 until 2013 for the
national park house of the National Park Berchtesgaden, and since 2015 as “Haus der
Begegnung” for the german Caritas association.
9

SPA GARDEN
The spa garden next to the house of congress is created in a french style where straight lines
and right angles dominate, behind the water areas with the fountains mold especially rows
of Japanese cherry trees the spa garden Berchtesgaden.
cherry blossom in Berchtesgaden
Every year in spring the blossoms of the Japanese cherry trees bloom in the spa garden.
Thousands of pink flowers transform the park into an ocean of blossoms and colors. Sadly
the flower magic is transient. Just 10 to 14 days bloom the pink flowers fully. But not only in
the spring is the spa garden a popular place for the Locals to stay, rest, and relax. The locals
who work in the market of Berchtesgaden use the garden for their lunch breaks and in the
summer, a lot of events for example concerts in the evening take place in the spa garden.
And in the winters when the water areas are frozen, a lot of people use the park for ice
skating or ice hockey.
Even the participants of the congresses,
seminars, exhibitions or other events in
the house of congress use the garden in
their breaks to calm down and relax. A
walk under the beautiful cherry trees
gives new energy on a long work-, or
seminar day.
10

THE
HIRSCHENHAUS
The so-called Hirschenhaus was built in
the year 1594 and thus originates from
the epoch of the early modern period.
Especially distinctive are the corner
tower, the flat saddle roof, and the rich
painted front walls. 300 years after the
construction the building was rebuilt by
August von Thiersch and put into the
condition how it can be seen today.
Inside the building, the restaurant “Zum
Hirschen” is located, and in front of the
house is the famous market fountain
with the bavarian lion.
AND THE WATER
FOUNTAIN
The market fountain was built in the
center of the marketplace in 1558. But
the distinctive middle pillar was added
later in1628. With the construction of
the marble basin, the market fountain
was completed in the year 1677. In the
course of a renovation, the market
fountain received its present form with
the new decoration in the style of the
Gothic. After 156 years the fountain was
finally completely renovated the year
and shines in new splendor.
11

MUSEUM CASTLE
ADELSHEIM
local craftmanship
The museum castle Adelsheim is one of the most important
folklore museums in Bavaria. In 13 rooms visitors can find
out more about the life of the people between mount
Watzmann and Untersberg. The focus of the collection is on
the “Berchtesgadener War”, the most famous craftsmanship
of the region. The collection includes artfully painted
chipboard boxes, colorful wooden toys, rough carvings,
flutes, figures of saints and nativity scenes, and delicate
leg carvings.
history and architecture of castle Adelsheim
In 1614 the castle was built by Degenhard Neuchinger as a pleasure and summer house. After
his death, the building belonged at first to the chapter of the abbey from Berchtesgaden, and
after that to the chancellor of the abbey Dr. Fröhlich in 1636. In the year 1796, the castle
became finally state property of Bavaria and was used as the main salt office.
While the main building consists of three floors, the side building has only two upper floors. In
total, the museum is covered with gauben and Schopfwalmen.
Castle Adelsheim was the place where the last governing prince-Propst of Berchtesgaden,
Konrad of Schroffenberg died in 1803. Since 1963 is the castle property of the county. After a
comprehensive renovation, the castle Adelsheim hosts the domestic museum of the
Berchtesgadener Land. Today the castle is one of the most important folklore museums in
Bavaria.
12

COLLEGIATE CHURCH
OF ST. PETER AND JOHN THE BAPTIST
The founding of the monastery goes back to the year
1116/19. After research, the monastery was built on the
place where in the 10th century a wooden church or
chapel was suspected. In the first half of the 12th century,
the cathedral was erected by price-Propst Eberwin as an
emergency construction. After an inscription, the
archbishop of Salzburg consecrated one of the first
construction phases. In the second half of the 12th
century, the three-naveromanesque pillar basilica and
probably the first towers were built. In the middle of the
13th century, the building was extended by a cloister, an
anteroom, and two towers. Around the change of the 13th
to the 14th century, the renovation of the building in
gothic style began as well as the design of a choir in neogothic
style by Propst Sax from Saxenhausen. Since 1803
the building serves as a parish church of the romanesquecatholic
parish St. Andreas.
A lot changed
The late romanesque cloister that borders the south side of the former monastery church
cannot be entered from the church anymore but from the castle square. Next to the cloister
were several common and recreational rooms of the foundation as well as the church.
Choirmasters and people close to the foundation were buried there, as several gravestones
show.
The cloister surrounded the Kreuzgarten. It was also a staging area for the choirmasters in their
daily schedules in the monastery between periods of silence, meditation, times for talking, and
tasks of daily life. This was the communication center of the monastery. At the time of its
creation, the building sculpture did not strive for realistic representations but symbolic ones.
Dramatic scenes and demonic faces should capture the eyes. The pronounced contrast
between symbols for good and bad was wanted and calculated. The art of sculpture is
labeled by the striving for strong expressions. The intention is in the Christian mission. Romantic
braiding adores columns and pillars. Here visitors can encounter the middle-aged world of
symbols.
13

14

NATIONAL PARK
In 1978 the first and only german alpine National Park, the National Park Berchtesgaden, a
retirement area for nature was created. Today the National Park counts a lot of other tasks
around nature conservation, research, recreation, and education. With its 250 kilometers of
hiking paths is the National Park the perfect place to hike in Bavaria. The 21.000 hectares big
nature conservation zone is an untouched stain where human does not intervene. The Alpine
National Park is also part of the UNESCO biosphere region Berchtesgadener Land. Visitors
can listen to the voices of the birds, and watch the marmots and golden eagles: the only
german alpine National Park offers hikes the whole year on different topics.
highest mountain
enjoyment of the alps
With its around 2713 meters height is
mount Watzmann the landmark of
Berchtesgaden. The east wall of mount
Watzmann is the longest climbing wall in
the east alps - a challenge for athletes
who like the extreme. Everyone can
experience the thrill of “Destiny
mountain”. Other rewarding goals are the stone sea and the plateau of the Hagengebirge -
a huge and lonely tabel landscape that breaks off to the outside with steep walls. Also,
ravines and gorges want to be conquered. With its waterfalls, the Wimbachklamm belongs to
the most beautiful ravines in the bavarian alps.
Alpine pastures in the
National Park
The National Park Berchtesgaden is more
than just a nature conservation area. On the
alpine pastures, animals are kept like in the
former centuries. And because of that rare
plants can be found on the mountain
pastures, which would not survive without
the management of the alpine pastures.
These treasures of the alps have developed
into a popular destination for hikers.
15

BERCHTESGADEN
water from deep mountain springs
Like precious gemstones are they embedded in a breathtaking mountain panorama: the lakes of
the Nationalpark. The eight kilometers long Königssee is probably the only fjord in middle Europe.
The Hintersee in the mountain climbing village Ramsau is the ideal picture of a romantic lake in
the mountains. The Funtensee, with a height of 1600n meters, is the coldest point in Germany in
the winter. He is surrounded by the high raising mountains of the stone ocean.
National Park Berchtesgaden and
Yosmite Valley
Since 2014 the two National Parks “national park
Berchtesgaden” and “Yosemite Valley” in California, the
second oldest National Park in the USA work together.
Despite all the differences, there are a lot of similarities in
the nature of the protected areas, like the type of rock
formations and scree masses, the vegetation in the alpine
highlands, mountain forests, and water bodies, and even the
tourism use is comparable in many areas. But not only do the
highlands mark the Yosemite Valley as well as the only
german highland National Park in Berchtesgaden out, but
even the Biodiversity is also especially high in both National
Parks. These areas build future cooperation in the fields of research and science, environmental
education and public relations, wildlife management, and dealing with other user groups.
Barrier-free and sustainable
Small paths, a brook, or steps can represent
insurmountable obstacles. That applies to
handicapped people or families with prams.
Berchtesgaden is a model project to make nature
experienceable for everyone. Therefore all
construction measures are executed barrier-free.
The suspension bridge and the viewing platform at
the wildlife feeder in Klausbachtal and the house
of mountains in Berchtesgaden are suitable for
wheelchairs and prams.
16

17

Attractions around
Berchtesgaden
18

THE ECHO AT LAKE
KÖNIGSSEE
by boot through the National
Park
The mighty rocks of the Berchtesgadener alps fall
nearly vertically to the shore of lake Königssee
whose deepest point is 192 meters. Who wants to
discover the unique nature around the most
popular mountain lake of Bavaria, has to take the
boat - and will listen to the echo.
Millions of echos in more than 100 years of electronic
river navigation
Because it’s a tradition and belongs to the river navigation through the lake Königssee like the
silent electronic motors the ships are equipped with. Thanks to prince regent Luitpold who was
afraid that the red deer in his favorite hunting grounds would run away. But he had no objection to
the loud gunshots that send the echo in the 1930s seven times from wall to wall over lake
Königssee. In the meantime, the gunshots were replaced with a Flügelhorn whose sounds are
discarded one time at the opposite rock wall and sound different every time, depending on the
player and the weather.
Around half an hour lasts the journey over the lake to the peninsula St.
Bartholomä, behind the great east wall of mount Watzmann.
19

Behind the famous baroque pilgrim church, dedicated to the holy Bartholomäus - with its famous
wine red onion towers one of most photographed motives worldwide - lure a stop at the royal
hunting castle with a typical bavarian restaurant and a beer garden to lake Königssee where
trout, char, and horseradish are turned into noble delicacies. Visitors can also discover the rare
animal and plant life of the peninsula.
In further 20 minutes on the is boot the stop Saket achieved, the rear end of the eight kilometers
long lake. Breathtakingly lake Obersee is located there that once was separated from lake
Königssee by a moraine. It takes about a 30-minute walk from its south end to reach the
Röthbach waterfall, in Germany the highest of its kind: over 400 meters fall the water masses
the rocks down.
By the way:
Not only do tourists ship over the lake, but also the
domestic cows. Every year in the early summer
they start their boat journey to the lush alpine
pastures in the National Park Berchtesgaden, to
come back over the water to their domestic
stables. When they have hard soil under their
hooves again they get decorated, but only if
nothing happened during the season. The ones
who want to watch this unusual alpine drive have
the opportunity to at the beginning of October.
20

THE KEHLSTEINHAUS
A historical viewpoint above Berchtesgaden. From the Kehlsteinhaus visitors have an amazing
panorama view of nearly 200 kilometers. Since 1960 the Kehlsteinhaus gets managed by the
“Zweckverband Bergerlebnis Berchtesgaden” and used as a mountain restaurant by private
tenants.
Hitlers tea house
The heavy building with its massive foundations was finished
in just a year. Among other things, it was for the hospitality
of official guests. Hitler personally was visiting the Eagles
Nest rarely because the trips there appeared too long and
risky to him. After the war ended the Eagles Nest missed the
blasts from the allies thanks to the personal commitment of
the former district councilor Jacob. Today the building can
be visited. It is preserved in its original form as a
contemporary historical monument and has a unique view
of the mountains of the Berchtesgadener Land.
Today
Through the tunnel to the elevator
The way from the parking to the Kehlsteinhaus is a special
experience. A tunnel cut out with natural stone leads 124 meters
far through the rock massif to a magnificent and brass-clad
elevator. In just 41 seconds, it climbs further 124 meters into the
interior of the Kehlsteinhaus. On the occasion of the 150th
anniversary of the Berchtesgadener Land`s affiliation to Bavaria,
the Bavarian State transferred the property to a foundation in
1960. The proceeds are used for non-profit purposes.
The street from mount Obersalzberg to the
parking of the Kehlsteinhaus is in its construction
unique in this world. The heavy height difference is
overcome with only one turn, where the steep
north-west side gets crossed two times. In 1952
the Kehlsteinstraße got blocked for individual
traffic and regular service was established. The
point of departure is located behind the
Documentation Obersalzberg and the Kempinski
Hotel Berchtesgaden, the 5 stars superior luxury
hotel.
21

DOCUMENTATION
OBERSALZBERG
Reopening is expected in the spring of 2023
Since 1923 Obersalzberg above Berchtesgaden was a residence of holiday for Hitler. After
the seizure of power in 1933, Obersalzberg was expanded into a restricted area of the
Führer and became the second seat of government of the Third Reich next to Berlin. The
Documentation Obersalzberg shows the history of mount Obersalzberg and National
Socialism.
Right now the Documentation Obersalzberg is closed because of conversion. The former
exhibition building is converted into an education center and the new permanent exhibition
is set up in the extension building.
The Documentation Obersalzberg allows dealing with the history of Obersalzberg and
National Socialism in total. The multi-media exhibition documents the history of
Obersalzberg connected with the National Socialist dictatorship.
Place of remembrance and learning
The Documentation Obersalzberg consists of a permanent exhibition and changing
exhibitions and presentations. A comprehensive range of educational programs serves to
raise awareness and deal with the Nazi past, not only in Obersalzberg. The documentation is
not limited to local events, but broadens the view of the central manifestations of the Nazi
dictatorship.
22

SCHELLENBERGER
ICE CAVE
Germany’s largest Ice
Cave in 1570 meters
Fascinating information about the ice and
magnificent halls deep inside the legendary
Untersberg. The only and largest open ice
show cave provides a cooling almost unreal
experience in the summer months. With
60,000 cubic meters of ice and a thickness
of up to 30 meters fascinates the
Schellenberger ice cave on the Untersberg,
the largest ice cave in Germany high above
Marktschellenberg its visitors.
On foot or by cable car
to the Schellenberger
Ice Cave
ice show cave since 1925
The Schellenberger ice cave is located in the
Untersberg massif at a height of 1570 meters
and is the only developed ice cave in Germany.
In 1826 the cave was mentioned in writing for
the first time and explored in 1874. The guessed
volume of the ice is 60,000 cubic meters and is
presented as an ice show cave to the public
since 1925. The explored length of the ice cave
is 3621 meters of which 500 meters are
accessible as part f the guided tour. The ice
cave can be reached with a hike lasting several
hours. It is illuminated with carbide lamps
hanging on the walls. The ice of the cave, which
partly re-forms in spring, is in no way inferior to
a stalactite cave in terms of the richness of the
sinter formations, such as stalactites and
stalagmites. In addition, there is also a
possibility of ripening in the cave.
With mountain experience, good condition, and warm clothing in the luggage visitors can climb
from Marktschellenberg for two and a half to three hours, via the Toni Lenz hut on the
Untersberg to the Schellenberger ice cave. Or if it is too steep the ice cave can be reached
with the Untersberg cable car, over the high alpine karst plateau and the unique Thomas-Eder-
Steig in one and a half to two hours.
guided tours in the ice cave
A guided tour of the underground ice world takes
about 40 minutes. In doing so carbide lamps
illuminate the shimmering ice masses of the mountain
fascinatingly. Visitors can explore the deeply located
ice halls, ice flags, and steep icefalls. But visitors
should note that the temperature in the ice cave is
between -0.5 and +1.0 degrees Celsius.
23

NATURAL BATH
ASCHAUERWEIHER
IN BISCHOFSWIESEN
Harmony on the water
Framed by the impressive mountains of
Berchtesgaden lies the natural bath
Aschauerweiher. It is a paradise for young
and old people who love the water and is
considered a secret tip for people who love
the sun and search for recovery. Here
visitors will find everything that is needed
for a varied and exciting bath day.
wellness lagoon at the foot of mount Watzmann
Maint part of the recreational swimming pool is the generous swimming pond that melds like
a lagoon into the dreamlike scenery. Children play between the childrens pool, the water
fountain, the suspension bridge, the childrens slide, and diving docks while the bigger ones
can compete on the beach volleyball ground or relax in the sunbathing area. Grown-ups will
enjoy the mountain panorama and relax under big parasols on wooden resting areas around
the water area. And for the people who want to do something for their health during their
vacation the clear mountain water of the Kneipp plant offers a suitable opportunity.
Bistro and event venue
“Aschauer Wirt”
Of course, visitors don`t have to miss out on culinary
delights during their stay in the natural pool. Whether a
quick refreshment in the well-stocked kiosk, a lovely
breakfast on the sun terrace, or small delicacies from
the restaurant kitchen. At the “Aschauer Wirt” visitors
are happy to satisfy their hunger in between.
24

EAGLES`S
SANCTUARY
OBERSALZBERG
Discovering a golden eagle in the wild requires patience and luck, even in the Valley of the
Eagles in the National Park of Berchtesgaden. But there is also another way to experience the
majestic bird of prey up close: Directly below the Kempinski Hotel Berchtesgaden on the
Obersalzberg is the eagle sanctuary of Falkner Wolfgang Czech.
Film animals in the eagle’s
sanctuary
The privately run falconry at Obersalzberg has
existed since 1953. The birds of prey from
Wolfgang Czech’s eagle enclosure have already
appeared in well-known television and film
productions, such as:
Forestry house Falkenau
Veterinarian Dr. Engel
The Vulturewally
Hubertus Castle …
Marmots, Reptiles, and more
Not only eagles, but also other wild animals have found a new home in the wildlife enclosure
at Obersalzberg: marmots, viper, fish, birds of prey such as owls, hawks, buzzards, and many
more. The birds of prey are trained by falconer Wolfgang Czech for movies, sick birds are
cared for, and then released back into the wild. In the eagle enclosure at Obersalzberg there
is no show operation, but free-running marmots.
25

26

HIKING IN BER
lake Königssee
Hikers get out at the post-requirement station Kessel.
For people in good condition, the hiking journey to
the Königsbachklamm and then to the Gotzenalm
embarks there. This tour belongs to the hiking
classics of the Berchtesgadener Land, not only
because of the dreamlike panorama extending from
the Hochkönigsplateau over the pyramid of the
Schönfeldspitze to the opposite Watzmann East
Face. This can only be topped by the lookout tower
of the Feuerpalfen a few meters higher: with a
magazine-like view of the turquoise shimmering lake
Königssee and the onion towers of St. Bartholomä.
Destiny mountain
“Groß und mächtig, schicksalsträchtig!” (Big and mighty,
fateful!). Mount Watzmann, after the magazine
“Bergsteiger”, “the most beautiful mountain in the world” is
even sung. As an entry into the world of Berchtesgadens
“Destiny mountains” offers itself the tour to the
Watzmannhaus. With the ascension from Hammerstiel /
Schönau is this tour more of a sophisticated hike than a
mountain tour and for the ambitious hiker as a day tour
possible or more comfortable with a night in a hut.
Behind the start from the Hammerstiel, a beginning from
the Wimbach bridge in Ramsau is also possible. Both variants lead on well-marked hiking trails
to the Stubenalm where both ways connect and lead to the Watzmannhaus in joint guidance.
Even an ascension from lake Königssee is possible: Either along the hiking trail at the bobsleigh
track over the Kling ore over the challenging Rinnkendelsteig from St. Bartholomä to Kühroint.
Eagles Nest
Most visitors of the Kehlsteinhaus use the spectacular bus line from the point of departure on
mount Obersalzberg. But you can also reach the scenic mountain on foot. From the
Rossfeldstraße leads a marked hiking trail on an asphalted side road to the former tea house of
the NS diplomat. The Kehlsteinhaus belongs to the most visited excursion destinations in Bavaria.
The mixture of a historical monument and an extraordinary geographical location acts as a
crowd magnet. The name “Eagles Nest” awakens a lot of expectations.
27

CHTESGADEN
through the Klausbachtal of
lake Hintersee
mount Kneifelspitze
An easy hike with a dreamlike panorama view. The
hike on mount Kneifelspitze is a must-have for every
Berchtesgaden tourist. Because of its free-standing
position, there is a unique all-around view of mount
Watzmann and other mountains around the
Berchtesgadener Tal.
Several starting points are possible for a hike on
mount Kneifelspitze, the most popular from the
sanctuary church Maria Gern, one of the most
popular picture motives in Bavaria. Also, variants
around mount Kneifespitze are possible. The goal of
every variant of the hike is the mountain restaurant
Paulshütte at the peak of the mountain.
On the tracks of the salt-creamer follows the hike
through the Klausbachtal the historical salt trade route
over the Hirschbichlpass to Weißbach in Austria. The
route was earlier a central transport link, over the
centuries salt was transported out of Berchtesgaden
with animals to the Pinzgau. Today the Klausbachtal is
one of the most popular hiking regions in the National
Park Berchtesgaden and the mountain climbing village
Ramsau. Several alms line the way from lake Hintersee
to the Hirschbichl. Among others the Ragert alm and the Bindalm. Along the way, there is also a
game feed with a viewing platform and a barrier-free suspension bridge.
stone Agnes
The hike to the natural monument stone Agnes, a 15 meters high obelisk
out of Ramsudolomit in the Lattengebirge is a real insider tip. Here you
can mostly enjoy the beauty of nature alone. The stone Agnes stands at
the foot of the mount Dreisesselberg in the Lattengebirge. This vast
massif allows many variants of the ascent to Agnes. You can also climb
from the Bischofswiesen Winkl to the Lattengebirge or from the Bad
Reichenhaller side via the Predigtstuhl.
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SKIING IN
BERCHTESGADEN
Jenner ski area at lake Königssee
It goes up with modern and comfortable ten-cabins, which have been used since the
construction of the Jennerbahn. Down on perfectly groomed slopes.
Up the mountain station, the new Jennerbahn offers skiing pleasure for passionate skiers,
beginners, and families. The Krautkaserbahn opens up the demanding Krautkaserhang with
four-seater armchairs. The new 6-seater Jennerwiesenbahn with high safety standards for
children starts below the middle station. So even pleasure skiers can start right into the fun
of the slopes.
During the winter, all 8. 5 kilometers of slopes can be snowed completely by machine. The
rope lances and snow cannons offer the best possible snow safety.
Everyone who wants to go down snowy slopes is welcome at Jenner. Whether on one or
two boards, whether they use the modern ascent aid or climb on their own.
ski area Rossfeld, Berchtesgaden Oberau
The Rossfeld is without a doubt the most snow-guaranteed family ski area in
Berchtesgaden. Four ski lifts provide access to well-maintained alpine and a separate
snowboard and boardercross slope. For experienced skiers, the 6-kilometer downhill runs
to Oberau or the neighboring ski area Zinken are very interesting. A shuttle bus runs
between Oberau and Rossfeld and includes a total of 15 kilometers of slopes with the
Oberau.
The Berchtesgaden Oberau Ski School is a professional ski school of the German Ski
Teachers Association with the license “kids on snow. ” In cooperation with the ski lifts
Rossfeld, the family-friendly natural snow ski resort, the ski school offers relaxation, fun,
and learning success in the snow.
ski area Götschen
In the middle of the beautiful mountain landscape with clear views of the Lattengebirge is
the ski area Götschen above the village of Bischofswiesen. This is where top alpine
athletes meet regularly for national and international competitions, as well as pleasure
skiers and families with children because the Götschen also impresses as a versatile family
ski area. Well-maintained slopes ensure enjoyable descents. It becomes particularly
attractive when you rock into the valley during night skiing on well-lit snow slopes.
Refreshment in the mountain inn “Götschenalm” with a sun terrace guarantees exclusive
views of the majestic mountains. The Götschen ski area is the regional center of the
Olympic base in Berchtesgaden and thus the venue of numerous national and international
ski and snowboard competitions. In addition, as a versatile family ski area, it also meets the
needs of recreational athletes and ski beginners.
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Salzburg
30

THE HOHENSALZBURG
FORTRESS
An imposing castle complex from the 11. century
The Hohensalzburg Fortress is a real eye-catcher high above the baroque towers of the city. As
a landmark visible from afar, the castle is an unmistakable part of Salzburg’s world-famous
silhouette. Its powerful appearance can be seen from down below and history can be
experienced inside, behind its thick walls.
History of the Fortress
The city of Mozart Salzburg is dominated by the walls of the Hohensalzburg Fortress, one
of the largest existing castles in Europe from the 11th century. The impressive building is a
remarkable proof of the former desire for representation and the authoritarian-political
demonstration of the power of the prince archbishops. The purpose of this facility was to
protect them from attacks. The fortress never had to prove its defensive function. Most of
the time the prince archbishops lived in the Salzburg Residenz, the city palace in the heart
of the old town.
The steep rock cone has been valued for centuries as a strategically favorable location on
the northern edge of the Alps. In 1077 a fortification was erected over the residence city
for the first time under the then Archbishop Gebhard I of Helfenstein. The reason for this
first construction activity was the investiture dispute between the German Emperor Henry
IV and Pope Gregory VII. , on whose side the
Archdiocese of Salzburg fought. To this day, the Hohensalzburg Fortress was never taken
by military means.
Prince`s chambers
The mysterious Prince’s Chambers of the Hohensalzburg Fortress are among the highlights
of your visit. By discovering the best preserved Gothic secular buildings in Europe,
experience a time travel into the Middle Ages and learn about the life and work of
Salzburg’s rulers and their subjects. The multimedia exhibition and the new Magic Theatre
will visit an unforgettable experience.
The countless exhibitions inside the fortress show a wider range of themes like the
exhibition of old weapons in the Zeughaus, the function of the fortress and the life of its
inhabitants, and the City of Salzburg in the fortress museum or old marionette puppets.
31

MIRABELL PALACE
Mirabell Palace was built in 1606 by prince-archbishop Wolf Dietrich for his beloved Salome
Alt. Today, it serves as A backdrop for romantic weddings.
The Marble Hall, the former banquet hall of the prince-archbishops, is generally regarded as
one of the "most beautiful wedding halls in the world". In former times, the likes of Leopold
Mozart and his children, Wolfgang and Nannerl, made music here. Nowadays, it regularly hosts
weddings, conferences, and awards ceremonies. The Marble
Hall also provides an atmospheric venue for the SchlossKonzerteMirabell concerts. The "Angel
Staircase", which leads up to the Marble Hall, is decorated with numerous cherubs.
AND GARDEN
Baroque pleasure gardens in the heart of the city
The Mirabell Gardens were completely redesigned under archbishop Johann Ernst von Thun in
1690. The underlying geometrical form, which is typical for the Baroque period, is still clearly
recognizable. The visual orientation toward the cathedral and fortress adds to the grandeur of
the gardens – simultaneously incorporating them into the overall historical ensemble of the city.
The garden features the Pegasus Fountain, a work by Kaspar Gras, the Grand Fountain (the
fountain pool) with four groups of figures by Ottavio Mosto, which symbolize the 4 elements:
fire, air, earth, and water, the Hedge Theater, which can be found in the western section of
Mirabell Gardens and the Dwarf Garden which originally consisted of 28 dwarves (nowadays
17) made from white Untersberg marble.
The Rose Garden with its ornamental rose beds and the Orangery, which functions as a palm
house today, is located south of the palace.
32

THE PALACE
HELLBRUNN
The palace Hellbrun was a pleasure palace, a place to relax, celebrate, and recuperate.
The palace is nearly the same
as it was 400 years ago, except that now everyone can visit it not only the archbishop
Markus Sittikus.
The permanent exhibition
The power of archbishop Markus Sittikus reached far beyond Salzburg. He ruled a region
from Carinthia in the south to Regensburg in the north. The interactive permanent
exhibition “GrandDelight – The unexpected world of Markus Sittikus” conveys the castle
and its history in a refreshingly different way – just as the prince-archbishop would have
liked.
Besides the exhibition, the palace is used as a location for weddings and celebrations. The
different parts like the palace rooms or the Orangery can be reserved as a venue for a
Party.
33

THE CATHEDRAL OF
SALZBURG
Salzburg cathedral is considered to be the first early baroque church north of the Alps. At
the entrance, three heavy bronze doors illustrate the divine virtues " faith, hope and love".
The bronze baptismal font is the oldest object in the cathedral. The organ scenery is
unique worldwide. 7 organs provide a moving musical experience. The crypt, a burial
place, exhibits a modern dance of death Projektion on the ancient walls. The dome
reached an approximate height of 64 meters and creates a beautiful play of lights every
morning. The countless works of Art Show the life and suffering of Jesus Christ. The rich
stucco is lending a Festival atmosphere to the interior of the cathedral.
THE STATE ROOMS OF THE RESIDENT IN THE
DOMQUARTIER
The state rooms of the Residenz in Salzburg are a true gem in Salzburg’s old town. It is the
symbiosis of unique architecture and almost lavishly furnished premises that make the
former palace complex of the Salzburg sovereigns one of the most magnificent places of
the present.
Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau had the medieval bishop’s seat as well as parts of
the buildings around today’s Residenz main courtyard demolished to create more room for
a sprawling new construction in the Italian style.
Under his rule, the wing with the Carabinieri Hall on the Residenzplatz (Residence Square)
and Domplatz (Cathedral Square) was constructed.
34

The Concept of the residence
Access to the staterooms is through the main courtyard with its three-arched hallway, past
the monumental niche with the Hercules fountain
The imposing main staircase was constructed to give access to the princely staterooms.
Ever since the time of Wolf Dietrich, the entrance was through
the Carabinieri Hall, an impressive stateroom used for ceremonies and festivities that also
gave access to the adjoining living and administrative quarters. The route which
ambassadors, statesmen, and diplomats were required to take by Baroque ceremonial
before an audience with the prince-archbishop led them through the Knights Hall to the
Council Chamber, then passing through the Antechamber to the Audience Hall, the
magnificent highlight. Only a few select guests were ever allowed access to the private
area of the princely apartments adjacent to the study (Retirade). The order of these rooms
was essentially laid down by the French suite of rooms for princely rituals and regulated by
‘chamber ordinances’.
The prince-archbishops continued to improve the décor of the Residenz. Therefore, the
decoration of the Carabinieri Hall with stucco and ceiling frescoes dates from the time of
Prince-archbishop Johann Ernst Graf von Thun.
From 1709 Prince-archbishop Franz Anton von Harrach had the Residenz modernized. The
renovation of the apartments, inspired by the Leopoldine Wing of the Imperial Palace in
Vienna, was intended to emphasize the patron’s princely status as a prince-archbishop.
The appearance of the main façade today, with its ornate main entrance portal and the
stucco surrounding the windows of the piano nobile, origins from this era.
Hieronymus Graf von Colloredo, the last prince archbishop before secularization, planned
extensive changes to the buildings.
He also commissioned Peter Pflauder, the court stucco artist, to decorate the walls of the
staterooms with fine white and gold ornamentation in line with neoclassical taste.
It was only with its transfer to the imperial crown estate office that the Residenz was used
as a secondary residence by the Austrian imperial family. Consequently, the staterooms
were equipped with furniture from the Imperial Furniture Collection.
35

MOZART`S
BIRTHPLACE
Getreidegasse No. 9, the house in which Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born, attracts
thousands of people per year. Salzburg’s most famous son came into this world on 27
January 1756. His family lived here for 26 years, from 1747 on, in an apartment on the
third floor. In 1773, the family moved to the house we know today as the "Mozart
Residence", on Makartplatz Square.
The museum invites to us take a tour through the original rooms and a middle-class
apartment reconstructed as authentically as possible. Items of everyday life, as well as
furniture from the 18th century, deliver a feeling of the time from long ago
Original certificates, letters, and memorabilia document Mozart's life in Salzbur,g and a
collection of portraits, mostly done during Mozart's lifetime, give an inside ofMozart’ss
life A particular joy for music interested people: the historical instruments, including
Mozart's violin and clavichord, are exhibited.
AND RESIDENTIAL
HOME
As Friends of the Spöckner
family, the Mozarts moved
into their apartment in 1773,
shortly after their third
journey to Vienna. The
house on the
Getreidegasse, where
Mozart was born had simply
become too small for the
family to host
social gatherings appropriately. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart lived at the house on
Makartplatz until he moved to Vienna in 1781. His mother died in 1778 and his sister Nannerl
got married in 1784, moving to St. Gilgen. The father first lived alone in the apartment – and
from 1785 with his grandson Leopold Alois Pantaleon, who had been entrusted to his care.
Destruction in the second world war and reconstruction
After Leopold Mozart's death on 28 May 1787, the house saw several owners. On 16 October
1944, two-thirds of the building were destroyed in an air raid. The part that had survived
was bought by the International Mozart Foundation in 1955. An office building was
constructed on the site of the ruins, which the Foundation also bought up in 1989. After it
had been demolished, the Mozart Residence was reconstructed true to the original building
plans.
36

RESIDENZPLATZ
SQUARE
& RESIDENCE FOUNTAIN
Residence Square is an especially magnificent forecourt between the archiepiscopal
residences in the heart of Salzburg's Old City. It is bordered by the New Residence with its
carillon, the Cathedral, the Old Residence, and a continuous row of townhouses.
History
Five squares were built under Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau: Residence Square
with its richly decorated baroque fountain is probably the largest and most beautiful square.
Fifty-five medieval buildings were torn down to make room for the square. Residence Square
was designed according to the Mannerist plans of the Italian architect, Vincenzo Scamozzi.
Residence Fountain
Residence Fountain is considered to be the most beautiful fountain in the city of Salzburg and
certainly deserves a closer look: four snorting horses seem to spring forth from the spouting
rock.
Giants rooted in the rock carry the lower basin, in which three dolphins
balance the scalloped upper basin. The upper basin holds a Triton, a jet of
water shooting into the air from his conch-shell trumpet.
Archbishop Guidobald Thun, a fountain enthusiast, commissioned the
fountain to be built. It is considered to be one of the most significant
baroque monuments in Europe today. The work is attributed to the Italian
sculptor, Tommaso di Garone.
37

MUSEUM OF
NATURAL HISTORY
& TECHNOLOGY
The Haus der Natur with its Science Center shows nature at
it’s most exciting on 7.000 m² of exhibition space: from Dinosaurs to underwater worlds, from
moonscapes to the human body – there are plenty of things to discover.
A little guide
The numerous exhibitions at the Haus der Natur are distributed over eight levels in two
buildings. The main building houses the classic natural history exhibits as well as the
zoological department. In the Science Centre, which is accessible via a glass staircase,
everything revolves around research and experiments. You should plan about three hours for
a visit to the museum.
Aquarium and reptile zoo
The aquarium opens up colorful underwater worlds: bizarre
and beautiful animals from tropical coral reefs, oceans,a
nd local rivers live in 38 impressive display tanks. The reptile
zoo is home to a wide variety of live snakes and lizards.
Science Centre: tangible technology
In the Science Center you can experience physics and technology first-hand – and
experiment to your heart's content: generate electricity with turbines, float through space on
a hydraulic platform or build a bridge and try it out right away. The Science Center is 100
percent interactive.
38

HANGAR - 7
AVIATION MUSEUM
Architecture
Due to its extraordinary architecture, Hangar-7 has emerged as a new landmark in the city of
Salzburg.
In designing Hangar-7, the attempt was made to filter the world of aviation into the
architecture and to create a unique setting whose flowing lines can be perceived in three
dimensions with all senses.
Standing inside Hangar-7, the transparent shell seems to open into an endless sky above the
historic airplanes. Looking at the building from the outside, the metaphor of a wing comes to
mind, exuding incredible dynamics and an absence of gravity - despite the 1,200 tons of
steel and 380 tons of special glass that went into its construction.
Art
At Hangar-7, art is not presented obtrusively. Rather, it is blended into the surroundings
subtly and stylishly. This alone guarantees a unique atmosphere inside the impressive glass
dome of Hangar-7, for the exhibited pieces
can quite literally be seen in a different light depending on the weather or the position of
the sun.
At Hangar-7, artists and visitors come together on an equal footing. Although it serves as a
meeting place for all art lovers, the term “art gallery” would not do it justice as an exhibition
venue. Rather, Hangar-7 is a place where artists and art aficionados can exchange ideas
and inspire one another. The exhibition space is brought to life by this exchange, which
stimulates the contrast between the different exhibition themes: technology in all its forms
on the one side, and the equally varied art on the other.
Technology
The Flying Bulls in Salzburg are devoted to the art of finding rare historic aircraft, which they
refurbish with a dedication to let them fly again.
Hangar-7 was opened at Salzburg Airport in the summer of 2003, henceforth the home of
the Flying Bulls. A special feature of the Flying Bulls' historic collection: the exhibits are much
more than just collector's items. All of the Flying Bulls aircraft, regardless of age, are still
airworthy.
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40

MUSEUM OF
MODERN ART (RUPERTINUM)
The location of the Museum der Moderne Salzburg Altstadt at the Rupertinum presents
temporary exhibitions of international format on 700 m². This Early Baroque building
in the center of the historic district are unmistakable thanks to the “Tongue Beards” of
Friedensreich Hundertwasser.
The History of the Building
First chronicled in 1350, the building occupies a prominent location between the Franciscan
Church and Collegiate Church. Under Archbishop Paris Lodron, the Palais "Collegium
Rupertinum" served as an educational institution for aspiring priests. The Rupertinum was run
as a home for children and students until 1974.
A Museum for Modern Art
In 1983, the building transferred to public ownership as the “Salzburg Museum of Modern Art
and Graphic Collection”. Over the years, the rooms of the Rupertinum were adapted and
now provide an outstanding setting primarily for graphic art and photography. Major
remodeling took place in 2016 and the Generali Foundation Study Center moved into the
Rupertinum.
Generali Foundation
The Generali Foundation comprises around 2100 works by 250 renowned artists and is one
of the biggest private collections in Austria. The extensive archives, the library, and parts of
the collection of the Generali Foundation were merged on permanent loan with the holdings
of Museum der Moderne Salzburg and are available free of charge.
Austrian Photography Collection
Photography has been collected at Museum der Moderne Salzburg since 1981. Whereas
initially the holdings of Salzburg Province were administered in parallel to purchases by the
Austrian Ministry of the Arts, the national collection is now officially known as the “Austrian
Federal Photo Collection at Museum der Moderne Salzburg” and comprises around 12,000
individual titles.
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42

IMPRESSIONS FROM THE
AUTHOR`S POINT OF VIEW
The Berchtesgadener
Land – a place for
action and relaxation,
modernity and culture,
city and nature. Whether
hiking to the highest
mountains or just a walk
in nature to relax there
is something for
everyone. With its
impressive nature, we
can only recommend
climbing one of the
many mountains to
experience the
mountain world up
close. With all the height
you should not forget
the salt mines and let
the mighty power of
nature from
underground work on
you. Once you are in the
Berchtesgadener Land
you should not forget a
trip to Salzburg. The city
of the wunderkind
Mozart is the ideal
place to immerse
yourself in past times
and enjoy one of the
famous Salzburger
Nockerln in front of the
backdrop of the
Salzburg Cathedral.
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