Mozart’s Birthplace (Mozarts Geburthaus) is the childhood home of one of the world’s most famous and prodigious composers, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Following his birth in 1756, Mozart lived here with his family until 1773. Mozart’s Birthplace became a museum in 1880 and has acquired numerous original artifacts from the composer’s widow and children. It presents a fascinating insight into the upbringing, life and talent of a musical genius.
Start your visit on the museum’s third floor, which presents an introduction into the Mozart family. Look inside the room in which Anne Maria Mozart gave birth to her son and spot the violin Mozart played as a child. Read information about his sons, Karl Thomas and Franz Xaver Wolfgang, both of whom grew up to become composers. Neither son had children of his own thus the family’s direct lineage ended with their passing.
Go to the second floor to see costumes and models of some of Mozart’s greatest operas. Among these are The Magic Flute and Don Giovanni. Listen to musical excerpts and browse original scores. Don’t miss the very clavichord that Mozart used to compose The Magic Flute.
The museum’s first floor focuses on Mozart’s day-to-day life. Artifacts include travel devices from the 1700s, a hairpiece, a scale model of Salzburg and well-preserved period furniture. Look for the unfinished portrait of a pensive Mozart created by his brother-in-law, Joseph Lange.
The house museum sits at the eastern end of Getreidegasse, in Salzburg’s Old Town. It’s a short walk from major city attractions such as Salzburg Cathedral and Mozart Square. Salzburg Central Train Station is a 10-minute drive to the north. After touring the museum, go for a stroll along Getreidgasse. This lively pedestrian-only street is home to medieval houses, fashion outlets and souvenir shops.
Mozart’s Birthplace is open daily and has an admission fee. July and August offer extended visiting hours. Guided tours have a fee. These are conducted year-round and upon prior reservation. Purchase an information booklet for a nominal fee at the entrance. Find full details on the museum’s official website.
