Salzburg, with traces of human settlements dating to the Neolithic Ages the oldest city in Austria. Salzburg is a Festival City, wherein every summer it transforms into one giant stage. Tourists also visit Salzburg to tour the historic center and the scenic Alpine surroundings. Salzburg was the capital of an independent state from the early 14th century until 1805; ruled by prince-archbishops. It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. The city has three universities and a large population of students.