The world of Salt in Hallein

It was salt that gave Salzburg half of its name, and it was salt that made the city rich and famous. During the era of the prince archbishops, the salt trade flourished, and it is for this reason that salt was referred to as “white gold”.

The world of Salt

In the world’s oldest visitor mine, not a single (salt) stone has been left unturned lately! From now on, you are welcomed to a newly designed entrance and service area at the Dürrnberg near Hallein. But more importantly, we’re telling the story of salt in a whole new way, brought to life with state-of-the-art technology.

The main character in this gripping journey? Naturally – salt, the essence of life!
Set off with your family on an adventurous journey through time, exploring the history of salt – from the present into the past and back again…

Journey Through the History of Salt Mining

Your journey into the mountain is a journey through time – more precisely, through 2,600 years of salt mining on the Dürrnberg near Hallein. Dressed in the white overalls of the miners, you’ll follow the traces of "white gold" across four fascinating eras of salt mining in Salzburg.

Your adventure begins with modern-day mining and contemporary salt production, takes you into the dark Middle Ages, and eventually leads all the way back to the Iron Age and the Celtic miners. A raft ride across the mystical salt lake whisks you into the dazzling world of Baroque Salzburg.

By the end of your journey, you’ll understand why salt is still considered the essence of life. Oh, and along the way you’ll cross the only underground border between Austria and Germany, ride a mine train, and zoom down two traditional miners' slides, deeper and deeper into the mountain.
What an adventure!

What You Should Know Before Your Visit

Meeting point for tours: 15 minutes before the start, at the ticket counter
Tour duration: approx. 90 minutes
Walking distance: around 1 kilometer on foot
Age restriction: Children aged 4 and up are allowed in the mine. Children under 4 can only enjoy the above-ground attractions.
Animals: not allowed
Wheelchairs: The tunnels in the mine are not wheelchair-accessibl
Clothing: Be sure to wear warm clothes and sturdy shoes – the temperature inside the mountain is a constant 10°C (50°F), and the ground is rocky.

For more information: www.salzwelten.at

The world of Salt in Hallein

Salt mines near Salzburg

The world of Salt

Journey Through the History of Salt Mining

What You Should Know Before Your Visit