Wasserspiele Hellbrunn (Trick Fountains)

The most elaborate joke of any Archbishop in history. Over 200 concealed water jets, mechanical figures, and trick stone seats, built by Markus Sittikus and Santino Solari in 1613-1615. The system has functioned continuously for over 400 years and is still operated exactly as designed. One of the most original heritage experiences in Austria.

The Archbishop of Salzburg designed his 1619 summer garden specifically to soak his guests without warning. The Wasserspiele Hellbrunn, or Hellbrunn trick fountains, are a Mannerist garden built by Archbishop Marcus Sitticus, who had been educated in Italy and wanted the full Italian villa experience. Hidden jets under stone benches, a soaking dining table where only the archbishop’s chair stays dry, and grotto figures powered by a natural spring that has been running the same hydraulic system since 1619. You will get wet. Children love it, and honestly, adults do too. The fountains are part of the full Hellbrunn Palace ticket, about 20 minutes south of Salzburg by bus. Go in summer, go with low expectations for staying dry, and you will leave having had more fun than you expected from a palace garden.