Salzburg is architecturally and scenically one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, with possibly more masterpieces of Baroque architecture per square mile than any other city on Earth. With a population of 145,000, Salzburg lies beneath the cliffs of the Mönchsberg, a rocky hill that is topped by the massive fortress of the Hohensalzburg. Salzburg is pleasant to visit at any time of year, and the Advent season is particularly charming with snow, holiday music, and the Christmas markets. Places to see include the Hohensalzburg Castle, the Domplatz and cathedral, St. Peter's Church, Mozart-Wohnhaus (the composer's birthplace and childhood home), the prince-archbishops Residenz, and the Hellbrunn Palace.