Back in 1964, the historic Schloss Leopoldskron in Salzburg, Austria, became a significant filming location for the classic 1965 film "The Sound of Music". Today, this Rococo-style palace stands as Hotel Schloss Leopoldskron, open to the public and offering a unique experience.

Relive the Magic of "The Sound of Music" at Schloss Leopoldskron

Exterior Shots and Filming Locations

Schloss Leopoldskron served as the backdrop for several exterior shots in the film. Commissioned by Prince-Archbishop of Salzburg Count Leopold Anton Eleutherius von Firmian in 1736, it represented the home of Captain von Trapp (Christopher Plummer) and his seven children. A total of 10 outdoor scenes were filmed on its grounds, adding to the film's charm.The palace's terrace and a gate overlooking a picturesque pond, flanked by two distinctive hippocampus statues, were also replicated for scenes filmed elsewhere. But visitors can still see the real things as guests of Hotel Schloss Leopoldskron or on official guided tours.

Interior Inspiration and Recreations

The décor in Schloss Leopoldskron's Venetian salon inspired the von Trapp ballroom where the famous "Lonely Goatherd" marionette number took place. However, none of the interior scenes in the von Trapp home were filmed inside the palace.Unfortunately, the glass pavilion where Rolfe (Daniel Truhitte) and Liesl (Charmian Carr) sang "Sixteen Going on Seventeen" is no longer at Schloss Leopoldskron. It was moved to Schloss Hellbrunn due to the massive influx of tourists after the film's release.

Hotel Accommodations and History

Since 1947, the property has been owned by the non-profit organization Salzburg Global Seminar and officially opened as a hotel in 2014. The palace itself features one dozen suites, while the adjacent Meierhof offers more than 50 guest rooms, including three "Sound of Music" rooms.This palace holds a special place in history, having been a part of the making of one of the most beloved films. Its connection to "The Sound of Music" continues to attract visitors from around the world.

Legacy and Continued Impact

The film "The Sound of Music", based on the Broadway musical and the true story of Maria von Trapp and the Trapp Family Singers, is one of Julie Andrews's most memorable works. Her performance earned her a second Oscar nomination.An instant classic, "The Sound of Music" has become a holiday staple, thanks to songs like "My Favorite Things" and its annual airings on TV. Andrews even returned to Schloss Leopoldskron in 1987 for a holiday special and again in 2015 for a featurette included in a 50th anniversary edition DVD.The success of the film has created an indelible link between the film and the city of Salzburg, making Schloss Leopoldskron a must-visit for fans of the movie.