Chronicle of Elegance and Enduring Legacy

History

A Historic Jewel in New Splendor

The history of Schloss Mönchstein is inextricably linked with the history of Salzburg – a heritage dating back to the 14th century. Originally built as a medieval defensive tower, the estate has transformed repeatedly over the centuries: from a strategic structure to a spiritual retreat, from a private castle to an award-winning luxury hotel.

Its unique location high up on the Mönchsberg has always united two worlds: the tranquility and seclusion of a green sanctuary and the immediate proximity to the vibrant Old Town. Guests from all over the world enjoy not only the views over forests, meadows, and historic Salzburg, but also the atmosphere of a house that breathes history.

With each era, the significance of Schloss Mönchstein grew – shaped by visionary owners, illustrious guests, and architectural masterpieces. Today, the house combines the grace of its past with timeless elegance and state-of-the-art comfort, creating a hotel experience as unique as its history.

1350

“Der Mönchstein” is first mentioned in documents as “Tetelheimer Turm.”

1531

Virgil Fröschlmoser built a Meyerhaus, stables, a “Stadl” (barn), and a chapel adjacent to the small castle. He constructed a stone tower on the rocky cone and shortly thereafter a cistern.

1622

The castle is sold to Mülln Monastery. Archbishop Paris Lodron commissions the construction of fortifications such as Monikapforte, Augustinerpforte, and a drawbridge.

1643

According to Philipp Harpff, “Der Mönchstein” is expanded into a three-story tower building.

1654

The Benedictine University of Salzburg acquires the property. Generous donations increased the university’s holdings: Abbot Urban Weber of Admont, for example, bequeathed Schloss Mönchstein to the university.

1661

Solemn inauguration of the chapel. Today’s tower room is used as an astronomical observation station.

1815

Famous guests visit “Der Mönchstein”: The Princess of Liechtenstein had “her stone bench for viewing” by the garden house, and Alexander von Humboldt enthusiastically writes about this “piece of paradise” in the city of Mozart.

1887

The banker Leitner has a road built from Mülln, extending to the electric “Mönchsbergaufzug” (Mönchsberg lift). The lift is also a construction financed by Leitner.

1919

Schloss Mönchstein undergoes significant structural expansion.

1948

A further renovation complements the castle.

1956

The von Mierka family acquires the property and converts it into a castle hotel.

1984

Dr. Klaus Besser includes Hotel Schloss Mönchstein in the “100 Best Country Hotels in Europe”.

1984

Awarded the “Grand Award” as the “Most Enchanting City Hotel in the World” by the “Hideaway Report.”

1986

Awarded the “American Gold Star for Quality” by B.I.D. – USA.

1989

Solemn opening of the “Salzburg Wedding Wall” and three years later of the “Castle Baptism Register.”

1993

The castle restaurant is awarded two Gault Millau toques, thus being rated as the best restaurant in the city of Salzburg.

1995

The 500th wedding couple solemnly exchanges vows in the castle chapel.

1996

Hotel Schloss Mönchstein becomes a founding member of European Castle Hotels.

1997

Opening of the “Mönchstein Panorama Trail,” which leads to the Mönchsberg Old Town Lift.

2003

Extensive renovation and expansion of the venerable castle. Just in time for the start of the festival season, it shines in new splendor and is solemnly opened.

2004

Awarded the “Sterne Award” by the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber – Hotel Industry Association 2004

2005

The Swiss entrepreneur Dr. Hans-Peter Wild acquires the hotel.

2008

Initial investments are made in the renovation of the rooms, the redesign of the restaurant, and the establishment of an exclusive spa and wellness area.

2010

The Austrian Hotel Industry Association designates the hotel as the first in all of Salzburg with the “superior” rating.

2013

Commencement of further extensive expansion work:

Revitalization of the Haerdtl Villa
Construction of the Mönchstein Hall
Construction of the 20-meter outdoor infinity pool

2014

Hotel Schloss Mönchstein*****s reopens, presenting, among other features, the outdoor infinity pool and a new terrace.

2017

Commencement of the next renovation phase in September: Construction of a unique glass-steel dome. Architect Volkmar Burgstaller.

2017

In November, the à la carte restaurant by Chef Markus Mayr is awarded two toques and 16 points.

2017

In December, the hotel is honored with the prestigious “World Luxury Awards” and wins in the categories:

Best Luxury Castle Hotel (worldwide)
Best Luxury Honeymoon Hotel (Austria)
Best Luxury Spa Hotel (Austria)

May 2018

The extensive expansion work is successfully completed.
Completion of the innovative glass dome construction
Opening of the new gourmet restaurant “The Glass Garden”
Opening of the redesigned Apollo Bar
Complete overhaul of the 24 rooms and suites
New seating and renovation of the Mönchstein Hall

October 2018

In October, the à la carte restaurant ‘The Glass Garden’ by Chef Markus Mayr is awarded three toques and 17 points by Gault-Millau.

November 2019

The à la carte restaurant ‘The Glass Garden’ by Chef Markus Mayr is awarded four toques and 17 points by Gault-Millau.

November 2020

In November, the hotel is honored with the prestigious “World Luxury Awards,” winning worldwide in the Best Luxury Castle Hotel category and throughout Austria in the Best Luxury Spa Hotel category.