I successfully navigated the trains and buses to arrive in Old Town Salzburg. The streets were charming, as you’d expect, but the tourist shops didn’t hold much interest for me. Then I happened upon the Saturday Market and the chorus swelled–I love Farmers Markets!

I browsed the meat, cheeses, and breads wishing my sister and brother-in-law were with me to translate. There were pretzels in every flavor imagineable and plump, juicy sausages. I got a pastry filled with ground nuts and cinnamon and a cheesy knudel thing for later. Then I turned my attention to the fortress.

The Salzburg Fortress

Good thing I’ve been carb loading because it’s a climb!  I can’t imagine how this fortress was built atop that cliff a millennia ago.  The view is spectacular. And you can see a multitude of church spires decorating the landscape. The Hohensalzburg Fortress was built in 1017 and enlarged in the 1500s. I walked and walked and walked, exploring all the nooks and crannies. I discovered an iron grill covering an opening, beyond which people have thrown coins on a ledge to make wishes. I’m hoping my wish comes true!

A View From the Top

I headed back to Old Town, meandering towards the train station. There’s still a police presence at the station because of the influx of immigrants. A huge inflatable Red Cross tent has been set up in the parking lot to accommodate them. The Austrians I’ve talked with seem sympathetic to the problem, although the logistics of accommodating them are overwhelming.

Tomorrow I’m having a spa day!  I can’t wait.