Salzburg can be regarded as the oldest and most important cultural and spiritual centre in present-day Austria. Salzburg is located about 20 kms from the border between Germany and Austria. This city came into existence in the seventh century AD and was initially part of the Bavarian kingdom (present Germany) and in the 19th century, was transferred to Austria. Salzburg got its name from the river Salzach (meaning Salt) that flows through the city. Situtated very near to the Alps mountians , it snows or rains for almost 180 days in a year. Salzburg is the birthplace of the renowned musician Mozart and the astro-physicst Doppler.