Saint Sebastian Church and Cemetery, Salzburg

Saint Sebastian's Church and Cemetery is one of Salzburg’s most atmospheric historic sites, combining a late Baroque church with a beautiful cemetery in the heart of the city. The original Catholic church was built between 1505 and 1512, but the present structure was erected between 1749 and 1753 by Austrian architect and stucco artist Kassian Singer.

Its Late Baroque design incorporates Rococo elements, including an ornate portal and an impressive gate separating the entrance porch from the nave. The high altar features a Madonna and Child created in 1611. A devastating fire in 1818 destroyed the church’s ceiling fresco and high altar painting by Paul Troger; the church was subsequently restored.

The cemetery is arguably the more fascinating attraction for visitors. Designed between 1595 and 1600 in the style of an Italian Holy Field, it is surrounded by elegant arcades. The cemetery is particularly important for those following Mozart’s story: Leopold Mozart, Wolfgang’s father, and Constanze Mozart, his wife, are buried here, along with other members of the Mozart family. The tomb of the famous physician Paracelsus is also located here.