Castel d’Appiano

This castle is not only the final destination of a famous hike in the Oltradige region, but it is also one of the major castles of South Tyrol.

In raised position at the top of a steep rock face above Missiano, this castle towers into the sky. The defensive character of the castle is referable to the majestic pentagonal donjon. Castel d’Appiano has been built between 1125 and 1130 by the Earl Ulrich II and already in these days this castle has been considered to be one of the most majestic all over. The owners of the castle first have been living in Castelvecchio at San Paolo. Due to the fact that after a conflict with the Early of Tyrol they felt unease, they changed residence and settled onto the rough rock.

In 1158 the Earls of Appiano mugged a pontifical delegation and the castle was destroyed by a punitive expedition under the rule of Henry the Lion. Soon after the castle was rebuilt and in 1315 it was handed over to the Sovereigns of Tyrol. Various families were enfeoffed with this mansion. Since 1911 Castel d’Appiano is in possession of the Earls of Enzenberg. In the years between 1964 and 1967 the mansion has been overhauled by the Provincial Antiquities and Monuments Office.

Ṕarticular worth to be visited is the unique donjon and its pentagonal donjon. Parts of the castle complex date back to the 16th century. Those who love arts should visit the well-preserved castle chapel, inside which there is a fresco cycle which is one of the best preserved all over Tyrol. The Roman frescos dating back to the 13th century illustrate 13 motifs of tradition (someone eating dumplings, haunting scenes etc.) of the time in which the castle has been built.

And also the tower located slightly below is part of the castle complex of Castel d’Appiano. The very hig, white calcimined tower has been preserved in its original height and is surrounded by a little circular wall.

Guided tours in the castle chapel:
> daily from 10.30 - 5 pm
> Closed on Wednesdays

Opening hours of the castle tavern
> Mid March to mid September: daily from 10 - 6 pm (closed on Wednesdays)
> Mid September to beginning of November: daily from 10 am to 6 pm

Further information:
tel. +39 0471 636081
info@hocheppan.com