Schloss Freisaal, Medieval castle in Nonntal, Austria
Schloss Freisaal is a castle in the Nonntal district of Salzburg that rises from a small pond in a southern area near the University of Salzburg's Faculty of Natural Sciences. The building combines medieval architecture with later Renaissance additions and sits amid maintained grounds.
First documented in 1392, the castle was established by Prince Archbishop Pilgrim II of Puchheim as a retreat outside the city walls. Its development over centuries is reflected in the building's multiple architectural layers.
The upper floor displays a 1558 fresco by Hans Bocksberger showing Prince Archbishop Michael von Kuenburg's ceremonial arrival in Salzburg. This artwork speaks to how the location served as a stage for displays of religious and political authority.
The castle remains under private foundation ownership, allowing visitors to view the exterior and surrounding grounds from designated paths. It is best to check accessibility before visiting, as access may be limited to the grounds.
The name derives from the original 'Freudensaal,' meaning pleasure hall, reflecting its role as a recreational residence for church leaders of that era. This naming reveals much about what the building meant to those who used it.
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