The Prince’s Castle near Burgusio in the Val Venosta - once a bishop’s residence, now an agricultural college
Image gallery: Prince’s Castle
The imposing Prince's Castle (Fürstenburg) sits enthroned above Burgusio in the Upper Val Venosta, below the renowned Abbey of Monte Maria. Built in the 13th century as the residence of the prince-bishops of Chur, it now houses an agricultural and forestry college. Remarkable frescoes depicting knights and coats of arms adorn the walls inside and in the courtyard.
Incidentally, Bishop Berthold II first mentioned the castle in a document in 1292. The massive keep is impressive, with its three-metre-thick, impenetrable walls - the oldest part of the former fortress. Further sections of the castle were built in the 16th and 17th centuries. Around 30 years ago, one of the towers collapsed - following this, the castle was converted into the college it is today.
The site lies directly on the Val Venosta Cycle Path, making it an ideal stop during a cycling tour. Guided tours are regularly offered during the summer months. The majestic white building above it belongs to the Abbey of Monte Maria, the highest Benedictine abbey in Europe.
How to get there: Pass St. Michael's Church in Burgusio, and shortly afterwards you will see the castle. Parking is available. The village is also easily accessible by public transport: Bus route 274 connects Burgusio with the town of Merano, while route 273 connects it with the Resia Pass.
Contact info
- Burgusio / Burgeis 7 - 39024 - Malles Venosta / Mals
- +39 0473 831190
- info@ferienregion-obervinschgau.it
Opening times
Despite careful control we cannot guarantee the correctness of the provided data.
Admission
guided castle tour:
€ 3.00 per person
More information
The Prince's Castle is accessible only during a guided tour which is offered in July and August every Monday and Thursday at 2 pm in German language und at 3 pm in Italian language.
Meeting point: in front of the castle, reservation not needed. From September to June, during the school year, the castle can be seen only from the outside. Season start 2025 on the 3rd of July.
