From the family seat of the Counts of Tyrol to the history museum of the country

A history museum placed in a historically important castle that is not to be missed. The majestic walls of the former place of the Counts of Tyrol rise above the basin of Meran as a vivid representation of history.

The castle

Tyrol castle, whose first phase of construction goes back to the 11th century and from which the region  around was governed until 1420 was of such importance that it gave its name to the country. From these years, the years of economic and cultural blossoming, most of the historic treasures of the castle date: two richly decorated portals as well as the chapel with frescos from the 13th century are more than worth a visit.

While visting the Castle you come to realise that the history of this region goes much further back in time. You come upon installations and posters of the South Tyrolean Museum of History. The permanent exhibition is added to each year with special exhibitions that last for a limited period. A small tour could be as follows:

The Museum

In the temple of the castle we immerge in the world of archaeology. Here you can find discoveries of human settlement in the region going back to the 7th century B.C . On your way from the Eastern Palace to the Kaiser's Hall you discover different facets of the Middle Ages, from the customs to the music. The story of the origin of Tyrol castle is told and illuminated with the aid of computer simulation, which lays the different construction phases of the castle one on top of the other. In the castle tower we have arrived in modernity and discover the changing contemporary history of the region betweeen 1898 until 1992. Afterwards it is possible to visit the museum cafe.

The position

In addition to the Museum, Tyrol castle has facilities that make your stay more enjoyable. In the small cafeteria you can enjoy coffee and snacks before and after your visit: small presents as well as books and brochures can be aquired in the museum's shop. You can also go next door to the Dorf Tirol raptor's centre where the birds of prey displays their aerobatic skills to the thrill of the visitors.

Opening hours and contact

The museum is open from mid March to November.

For further information:
Südtiroler Landesmuseum für Kultur- und Landesgeschichte Schloss Tirol
Schlossweg 24 - I-39019 Dorf Tirol
Tel.: +39 0473 220 221 - www.schlosstirol.it