Herbert von Karajan Platz, Salzburg

The Herbert von Karajan Platz is a square in the old city of Salzburg. It is named after a world-renowned music conductor who was born in the city.

The Herbert von Karajan Platz was originally called the Sigismund Square after Archbishop Sigismund Christian Schrattenbach. It is located in front of the oldest road tunnel in Austria called Sigmund’s Gate. It connects the old city with the Reidenburg district.

The prominent feature and most visited part of Herbert von Karajan Square is the horse pond or horse wash. It is called the Hofmarstallschwemme or the Royal Stable’s Wash and was designed and constructed by architect Bernhard Fischer von Erlach as part of the façade of the Royal Stables. Its present appearance is the result of restoration during the reign of Archbishop Firmian in 1732. It is now surrounded by a balustrade and is a unique work of architecture. A monument called the Rossbändiger or horse tamer welcomes visitors. Behind the monument is a palatial façade. Equine-themed frescoes by artist Josef Ebner adorn the façade. The painting in the center of the wash is from Greek Mythology and portrays Bellorophontes a mythical Greek character who tried to reach Mt. Olympus by riding on Pegasus.