The Salzburg Fortress has introduced a unique attraction for the public: a set of games

Salzburg Fortress ( Festung Hohensalzburg in German), one of Mozart’s most impressive historical landmarks, has introduced a new attraction that promises to make a visit a unique and fun experience: the Festungsspiele. Visitors can purchase a set of games for up to five people with which to engage in various tests of skill, all outdoors. This innovative pathway allows visitors to immerse themselves in the history of the fortress through a series of thematic games and interactive challenges, distributed at different locations within the walls. The aim is to offer a dynamic and engaging alternative to the classic guided tour, making the discovery of this extraordinary monument a playful and accessible experience for all.

The Festungsspiele follow the motto “Games for Everyone” and offer a set of activities designed for groups of up to five people, with stations that allow them to try their hand at various tests of skill, often related to the historical life of the fortress and the people who inhabited it. Along the route, there are seven thematic stations that offer different challenges, each enriched by the presence of a historical character who, in a light and entertaining tone, tells trivia and anecdotes from the past.

For example, at the first station, visitors can meet Diemut von Högl, a four-time married burgravine, who invites visitors to try their hand at a challenge titled “Throwing the ring for love.” This challenge, inspired by her personal story, is just the beginning of a playful journey between past and present. Another character, Master Peter, the skilled keeper of the weapons, in the second station challenges participants in the game of Kegelscheiben, an ancient version of bowling, where you have to hit the target accurately to get the highest score.

Thematic challenges related to history

Each game is designed to offer not only fun, but also a moment of learning about the history and traditions of the fortress. For example, at the third station, dedicated to the blacksmith’s workshop, participants can wield a hammer and try their luck in a test of strength and precision, just like blacksmiths of the past. At the fourth station, of the white peacock, a symbol of the archbishop of Salzburg in the 16th century, it is possible to turn a wheel of fortune, hoping that the magic peacock will bring good luck to one’s group.

Another highlight of the route is the challenge of Santino Solari, the famous architect who designed important buildings in Salzburg, including the Cathedral. Here, participants are invited to place imaginary bells in the cathedral, in a game that tests their dexterity and skill in following the directions of a true master of architecture.

Each Festungsspiele station is not only an opportunity to have fun, but also to learn in a light and interactive way. The course was developed with the support of storytelling and gamification experts to ensure that visitors of all ages can actively participate and get the most out of their visit to the fortress.

An enchanted garden and games for relaxing

In addition to the seven main stations, the Festungsspiele also offer spaces dedicated to relaxation and socializing. Part of the fortress garden has been transformed into a Paradiesgarten, a garden paradise with fruit trees, herbs, and benches where visitors can rest between challenges, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the beautiful view of the city of Salzburg. This green space is designed to provide a rejuvenating break, in harmony with the surrounding nature, and is an essential part of the visiting experience.

In addition, for those who wish to continue playing on a lighter note, there is a giant tischwuzzler, or six-armed foosball table, where the knobs represent historical figures. This simple but fun game, too, is designed to entertain visitors of all ages, always maintaining that common thread that links the game to the history and tradition of the fortress.

Accessibility and practicality: a route for everyone

Another great strength of the Festungsspiele is its accessibility. The trail is designed to be fully accessible, making it ideal for families, groups of friends, or couples. It is not necessary to have extensive knowledge about the history of the fortress to participate: each game is designed to be intuitive and engaging, with simple rules and a dynamic that encourages collaboration among participants.

The course is structured to be completed in about 45 minutes, depending on visitors’ skill and desire for challenge. It is possible to participate in part of the course for free, while access to the entire game circuit requires the purchase of a kit costing 9 euros, valid for up to five people. The kit includes tokens, instructions, a turnip crown for the winner and gadgets such as pins and tattoos. In addition, the pack can be reused as a cutout sheet, providing a creative memento of the day spent at the fortress.

The Salzburg Fortress has introduced a unique attraction for the public: a set of games

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