The Archbishops of Salzburg are the leaders of the Archdiocese of Salzburg, a significant ecclesiastical territory in Austria. This position has existed since the early Middle Ages, with the first archbishop, Saint Rupert, being appointed in 739 AD. The archbishops play a crucial role in the Catholic Church, overseeing religious activities and providing spiritual guidance to the faithful in the region. Historically, the archbishops held both religious and political power, often acting as princes within the Holy Roman Empire. They were influential in the development of the city of Salzburg and its culture, contributing to its reputation as a center of music and education, particularly during the time of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.