The first notes of The Sound of Music soar, and suddenly you’re looking at sweeping mountains that don’t seem like they belong to this world. Those aren’t painted backdrops or studio tricks—those hills are real. The beloved musical was filmed in Austria, and many of the places you see on screen can still be visited today. Salzburg: The Heart of the Movie Most of the filming took place in Salzburg, Austria, a city known for its baroque churches, cobblestone streets, and dramatic Alpine setting. It became the storybook stage for Maria’s journey from the abbey to the von Trapp family. Key spots in Salzburg include: Mirabell Gardens – where the “Do-Re-Mi” number brought music to life. Residenzplatz Square – where Maria sings “I Have Confidence” while spinning with excitement. Nonnberg Abbey – the real convent where the actual Maria von Trapp spent time before leaving to become a governess. Today, Salzburg proudly celebrates its connection to the movie with themed tours and fa...