Expect to be entertained! a unique cultural jewel

Water automats, grottos, fountains – Prince-Archbishop of Salzburg Markus Sittikus had a system built that astonished, entertained and befuddled his guests. A status symbol and mannerist toy in one. Experience a unique cultural jewel which is to be found nowhere else in this form – right next to the world famous city of Salzburg.

Mirror Grotto in the trick fountains of Hellbrunn

Grottos Amusing wonders

Greek gods, miraculous creatures and illusions are waiting for you in Hellbrunn's five grottos, which bring visitors to a terrible dread and delighted astonishment.

 

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Boy with an audio guide

Audio guide engaging and informative

Stroll through the trick fountains with an audio guide and immerse yourself in the unexpected world of Markus Sittikus.

 

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Small Mechanical Theatre: Miller

Water Automats since 1615

The water automats are five water-driven figures – a unique ensemble worldwide. Markus Sittikus shows what his engineers are capable of – and the way in which he masters the element of water.

 

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Travel Reports

A fever prevented us seeing the salt mine from which the city had received its name …
Hesther Lynch Piozzi - 1785
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Oh what a lovely place to retreat to, such grace, such delight. Such a little earthly paradise …
Domenico Gisberti - 1670
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Large Mechanical Theatre in the trick fountains of Hellbrunn

Mechanical Theatre Always diligently at work

The most recent attraction of the trick fountains was constructed in 1750 by Lorenz Rosenegger. 163 water-driven figures depict the life of a small Baroque city, hammering, sawing and handiwork takes place tirelessly. An organ gives the beat to make the work go more easily – water-driven, of course.

 

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Themed tours

Follow Markus Sittikus's lead and enjoy this pleasure palace in fine detail with your own private tour through the magical trick fountains.

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Royal Table and the Hellbrunn Palace

Fountains Everything flows

Greek and roman mythology also plays the main role in the fountains: we meet Eurydice, Neptune, the hunter Actaeon and Goddess of the Hunt Diana – perfectly appropriate to the mannerist spirit of the time. The largest fountain is situated directly at the rear of the palace – fed by a natural spring: the Altemps Fountain with the Star Pond and its sumptuous mosaics.

Videos in sign language

Videos in sign language

Here you can find videos in sign language for all the stations of the tour of the trick fountains.

 

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