Behind the scenery of an aristocratic past

Those wishing to visit castles near Merano have one difficulty, the multitude of choice. In addition to Tyrol castle, which houses the South Tyrolean Museum of History, there are numerous other buildings of historical interest worth mentioning. In most cases the history of the castles in Merano and its surrounding area is linked with that of an aristocratic family, who used them as a summer residence. In the very special case of Schenna it became even more than just a summer residence.

Schenna Castle

Petermann from Schenna built the castle in 1330, and in 1844 Archduke Johann acquired it. Even though the castle was in the public spotlight at the time when Prince "Friedrich with the empty pockets" tried to besiege the castle, the Archduke's purchase attracted even more attention : His liaison with a postmaster's daughter created a great fuss in Viennese society, but was finally resolved by mutual consent. Indeed Archduke Johann, who was and is very popular, renounced  his dynastic rights and his descendants, who were born to his now ennobled wife, were allowed to carry the title of "Earl of Merano". Evidence of Johann's stay in Schenna is to be seen in the marvellous interior decoration of the castle: fantastic coffered ceilings, richly decorated wainscotings and a considerable collection of paintings will delight every visitor not just enthusiasts of interior design. Furthermore a presentation on "the art of war", a weapons collection  and a torture chamber can be visited.

Further information:
Schenna castle
Schlossweg 14 - I-39017 Schenna
Tel.: + 39 0473 945 630 - www.schloss-schenna.com

The castle villages of Tisens-Prissian

The probably densest concentration of castles and palaces in Merano and its environs can be found in two villages not far from Merano. Indeed the villages Tisens and Prissian are often called 'castle villages' , since many aristocrats spent their summer holidays there. Although today the double-towered Leonburg castle is in private hands and therefore not open to public, the majority of the seven castles do offer at least partial access: Katzenzungen castle opens its doors for exhibitions, Fahlberg castle has a coffeehouse and the historic fortified castle even boasts a hotel... And, if you just feel like following in the footsteps of noblemen and noblewomen, a castle walking tour between these pictorial villages, maybe at apple blossom time, is a delight you will doubtlessly enjoy.