The state of Salzburg, one of Austria's nine federated states, boasts a rich history dating back to prehistoric times. The region's colonization began with the Celts, establishing the town of Iuvavum, which later became part of the Kingdom of Noricum and eventually a province of the Roman Empire. In the 6th century, Bavarian settlers arrived, followed by Saint Rupert, who founded the Salzburg diocese and the first religious settlements in the 7th century.
Over time, Salzburg evolved into an archdiocese and expanded its influence by absorbing other bishoprics. In the early 12th century, the Salzburg Archbishopric Principality was established, becoming an imperial state under the reign of the prince-archbishops who wielded significant political and religious power for centuries.
The region is characterized by spectacular landscapes, including the Central Eastern Alps (Hohe Tauern), the Dachstein Massif, and the Berchtesgaden Alps. The Salzach River, the primary watercourse, flows through the region and merges into the Inn River.
Salzburg shares its borders with the federal states of Upper Austria, Styria, Carinthia, and Tyrol, as well as neighboring countries such as Italy (South Tyrol) and Germany (Bavaria). The highest point in the state is the Grossvenediger, rising to an altitude of 3,657 meters. This history and geographic features make Salzburg a place of diverse and storied heritage.
