Tyrol Castle

One upon a time, Tyrol Castle was the seat of the Lords of Tyrol whose last member died in 1253. Today, however, it is the symbol of the whole area - the castle gave the name for the "Land Tirol" that was brought to light by Meinhard, Duke of Carinthia, in the 13th century. The circular wall, constructed around 1100 AD, today is one of the oldest preserved circuar walls all over. The second construction phase under the Lords of Tyrol dates to 1140. Under the rule of Margaret, Countess of Tyrol, the building had its booming years - when she abdicated, the residence of the Lords of Tyrol was transferred to Innsbruck.

Still today, Tyrol Castle - "Schloss Tirol" in German, "Castel Tirolo" in Italian - is located in majestic position high above Merano on a huge moraine. Remaining are the impressive portals as well as the castle chapel. Inside it, there are numerous Gothic frescos and the oldest glass paintings of Tyrol as well as a Crucifixion Group larger than life-sized. Above the entrance to the chapel you can see the oldest portrayal of the Tyrolean Eagle, dating back to the 13th century.

After restoration works in the 20th century, since 2003 the South Tyrolean Museum of Culture and Provincial History has been hosted inside the complex. It provides an insight into the history of Tyrol down to the present day on 20 different levels. Close the Tyrol Castle, there is also the "Bird Care Centre" which offers flight shows on a regular basis. And how to reach the castle? From Tirolo (parking spaces, subject to charge) the Castle Path leads you in a pleasant 30-minute walk to the castle, passing an old tunnel and the Earth Pyramids of Tirolo. The path is closed to traffic.