When checking in for a stay in one of Europe’s most historical cities, it’s nice to feel connected to that storied past through the building in which you stay. The Goldgasse Hotel in Salzburg boasts a mind-boggling 700 years of history weaved into its architectural fabric; the 13th Century structure was first recorded as being a coppersmith’s workshop in 1573, and continued as such until it became a hotel which has now been spectacularly restored.

They knew how to build sturdy foundations in the 1200s, and it’s a good job as the Goldgasse Hotel is practically groaning under the weight of all that heritage. Timber joists, frescoes, masonry and stone flooring are among the features to have been carefully restored, while porcelain tiles, glass and Salzburg oak have been introduced as part of the renovation work. The theme of the hotel calls on the city’s musical associations, with each of the boutique rooms being decorated with scenes from a popular opera. The selection has been taken from productions staged at the Salzburg Festival, and includes Peer Gynt and La Boheme. The Jedermann suite enjoys a private terrace from which to survey the city’s old quarter — landmarks within walking distance include Salzburg Cathedral, the Hohensalzburg Fortress and Mozart’s birthplace.