The remarkable Museumskomplex, an epitome of rich history and architectural splendor, is celebrating its birthday. Founded in 2014, the “DomQuartier” marked the transformation of the political and ecclesiastical power hub into a public attraction. The historic city of Salzburg witnessed the grandeur of the residence, cathedral, and the archabbey of St. Peter for centuries. Their architectural unity, a unique blend of historic significance and aesthetic appeal, shapes the city and the state of Salzburg.
Andrea Stockhammer, the director of “DomQuartier” Salzburg, shares her insights: “Today, the visitors are privy to the same experiences as the prince-archbishop and a select few in the past. They can traverse through the buildings, soak in the secular splendor of the residence, and the pictorial stories of the deeds of Alexander the Great. They can also gain insights into the spiritual sphere of the cathedral and archabbey.”
Experience in 3D
The unity of the residence, cathedral, and archabbey became redundant following the dissolution of the spiritual principality in 1803, leading to the construction of structural barriers. Over 200 years later, these barriers were eradicated, paving the way for a unique museum tour. As part of the anniversary celebration, visitors can explore the 1,000-year building history of Salzburg city center through an interactive 3D visualization from April.
50 years of the Cathedral Museum
In 1974, on the initiative of the cathedral chapter, Salzburg Cathedral received a museum for its 1,200th anniversary. The South Oratory was chosen to showcase cathedral treasures and ecclesiastical art from the archdiocese. Additionally, a new chamber of art and curiosities was established in the southern arch of the cathedral and added to the museum.
Reinhard Gratz, the director of the cathedral museum, expresses his delight: “The cathedral museum will be 50 years old on April 6th. The name is fully justified as it is the only diocesan museum in Austria located within a cathedral. The semi-sacral character of the museum rooms of the oratories provides the perfect backdrop for a church museum.”
