Dominating the western side of Salzburg's Residenzplatz is the Residenz, the former palace of the city's once powerful Prince Bishops. 

Built between 1596 and 1619, this huge palace is laid out around three courtyards, with a large marble gateway added in 1710. Spectacular State Apartments are lavishly decorated in Late Baroque and Early Neoclassical style and with exquisite wall and ceiling paintings, rich stucco ornaments, and handsome fireplaces. 

Of particular note are the Knights' Hall (Rittersaal), the Conference Hall (Konferenzsaal), and the splendid Audience Hall (Audienzsaal) containing Flemish tapestries from the 1600s and fine Parisian furniture.