Pietra Castle, Tasso Castle, and the pilgrimage church of Maria Trens shape the Vipiteno basin
The old Brennero road leads through the expanse of the Vipiteno basin, passing Campo di Trens. Where the meadows merge into the slopes and hills, castles and manors dominate the landscape of the Upper Valle Isarco. Pietra Castle is located directly opposite Tasso Castle on the other side of the valley.
The latter is known for its Green Hall, the torture chamber and the underground dungeon, and is open to visitors. Its location on a rocky hill near Pruno effectively protected it from attack, which is why it is now one of the best-preserved and oldest castle complexes in South Tyrol. The small, ornamental Guelfo, or Welfenstein Castle also belongs to Campo di Trens.
Besides its fortifications, the area is known for its churches. For centuries, people have made pilgrimages to Maria Trens, whose pilgrimage church is considered the most important pilgrimage site in South Tyrol, alongside the one of the Madonna di Pietralba in the Val d'Ega. The court procession, a women's night pilgrimage and the procession of lights in late October are still held here. What was once considered a pilgrimage site is today often described as a power place.
The site is a spiritual source for everyone, even for those not on a pilgrimage. The municipality of Campo di Trens consists of the villages of Trens, Pruno, Valgenauna, Mules, Stilves, and Castelpietra with its castle. It also includes many smaller settlements such as Dosso, Rio, Flanes, Novale Basso, Fuldres, Rizzolo, and several biotopes. The municipal area extends from the Isarco Gorge near Fortezza northwards to the medieval town of Vipiteno, known as the Fugger Town.
Hikers are drawn up to Lake Pontelletto below the Montaccio di Pennes. Here, amid the rugged mountain landscape of the Sarentino Alps, you will find picnic areas and the Pontelletto Hut. For winter sports enthusiasts, the Monte Cavallo near Vipiteno provides numerous opportunities.
Mobility - Closures Brennero Railway: From August 12 to 18, 2025, inclusive, the Brennero railway line will be closed on the section between Bressanone, Brennero, and Steinach am Brenner on the Austrian side. The… read more
