The Sound of Music at Schloss Leopoldskron
The story of the von Trapp family has fascinated the entire world since the film version of “The Sound of Music” aired in 1965. When production began in Salzburg in 1964 nobody dreamed that this movie would become famous throughout the world. The leading actress, Julie Andrews, had recently made her successful debut in the Hollywood classic “Mary Poppins” and seemed predestined to play the part of a nanny.
Shortly after Max Reinhardt’s son, Wolfgang, bought the film rights from Maria von Trapp in 1956, the story was made into a German film. The musical version also enjoyed a huge success on Broadway, yet the worldwide breakthrough didn’t occur until Rodgers & Hammerstein’s film version was produced.
Schloss Leopoldskron as a Filming Location
Schloss Leopoldskron was considered by the location-scouts as a filming venue most likely due to Wolfgang Reinhardt’s contacts.
At that time a white music pavilion stood in the palace park and played an important role in the film’s romantic scenes. Since the number of tourists increased tremendously after the release of “The Sound of Music”, the pavilion was moved to Schloss Hellbrunn in order to reduce the congestion in the park at Schloss Leopoldskron.
Schloss Leopoldskron has been dubbed the "Sound of Music" palace for more reasons than its outdoor movie scenes: one of the main rooms of the palace, the Venetian Salon on the first floor, was completely replicated in order to be used as a film setting. The magnificent handcrafted, gold wall panels and mirrors served as a model for the ball room scene in the film. It was also the backdrop for the private performance of the marionette theater.
In 1987, a special production called “The Sound of Christmas” was filmed at Schloss Leopoldskron, starring Julie Andrews, John Denver and Placido Domingo, thus re-establishing the connection to the movie.
The Sound of Music
"The Sound of Music" is based on the true story of the von Trapp family and their escape from Austria during World War II. The plot follows Maria, a young woman who wants to become a nun but is hired as a governess for the seven children of the strict Captain Georg von Trapp. Through music and love, Maria manages to win the captain's and his children's hearts.
The film's music, composed by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II, includes world-famous songs such as "Do-Re-Mi," "Edelweiss," and "My Favorite Things." These songs have become firmly ingrained in pop culture and contribute to the film's enduring popularity.
Schloss Leopoldskron in Detail
Schloss Leopoldskron, a baroque palace on the Leopoldskroner Weiher in Salzburg, was built in 1736 by Prince Archbishop Leopold Anton von Firmian. The palace is known for its magnificent interiors and extensive park.
The white bandstand in the Schloss Park, where some of the film's most famous scenes were shot, attracted numerous visitors. However, due to the large number of tourists, the bandstand was moved to Hellbrunn Palace, where it can still be visited.
Schloss Leopoldskron is now an exclusive hotel and popular event venue. Visitors can take guided tours that explain the history of the castle and its role in The Sound of Music. The hotel also offers special packages that include overnight stays, breakfast, and a Sound of Music tour.
Discover our Sound of Music offer at Hotel Schloss Leopoldskron and experience the magic of this unique filming location. Please visit our website or contact us directly for more information and bookings.
Experience The Sound of Music in Salzburg with Salzburg Panorama Tours!
For a complete The Sound of Music experience, we recommend taking one of Salzburg Panorama Tours' famous Sound of Music tours. These tours take you to the film's key locations in and around Salzburg, including Schloss Leopoldskron, and offer exciting insights into the film's history and filming.